Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant concept in healthcare — it’s becoming a mainstream tool for Americans striving to live healthier lives. According to a new nationwide survey conducted by Talker Research for The Vitamin Shoppe, 35% of U.S. adults are actively using AI to manage their health and wellness.
This shift underscores a growing trend where consumers are seeking faster, more personalized, and tech-driven solutions to track symptoms, manage chronic conditions, plan nutrition, and even receive emotional support.
Survey Highlights: How Americans Are Using AI in Health
- 31% use AI to understand or manage specific health conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension)
- 25% turn to AI tools for discovering healthy recipes and planning meals
- 23% rely on AI-generated fitness plans or virtual trainers
- 24% use AI to fact-check health information they come across on social media
- 20% engage AI apps for mental health or emotional support, highlighting the tech’s expanding reach into wellness
What’s notable is the diversity of applications — from virtual symptom checkers to personalized diet assistants — AI is helping people become more proactive about their health, often without stepping into a clinic.
Trust vs. Technology: Where AI Stands
While AI tools are gaining popularity, Americans still lean heavily on traditional healthcare relationships.
- 93% of respondents said they trust their doctor most for medical advice
- 82% trust friends and family, while
- Only 63% said they trust AI more than social media influencers — yet that’s still a major win for technology over misinformation.
This finding suggests that while AI complements traditional healthcare, it’s also becoming a preferred alternative to less-reliable digital sources.
The Future of AI in Health: What’s Coming Next?
The survey reveals that 68% of Americans believe AI will play an even bigger role in health management in the near future. Among the reasons cited for choosing AI:
- Speed and convenience
- Greater accuracy than general search engines
- Availability of 24/7 support
- More personalized recommendations
With companies investing heavily in AI-powered health platforms, and users increasingly relying on them for both physical and mental wellness, this trend shows no signs of slowing.
As AI becomes more sophisticated and accessible, it may soon become as common as a fitness tracker or a health app — making it one of the most disruptive yet beneficial forces in modern wellness.
