Method for monitoring food intake

• US 20020022774A1
• Filed: 08/07/2001
• Published: 02/21/2002
• Est. Priority Date: 08/08/2000
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: Eddy Karnieli
• Original Assignee: Eddy Karnieli
• Inventors: Karnieli, Eddy
• Granted Patent: US 6,508,762 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 600/300
• CPC Class Codes: G16H 20/60 relating to nutrition control, e.g. diets
• CPC Class Codes: G16H 70/00 ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical references
• CPC Class Codes: Y10S 128/921 Diet management

Abstract

The invention provides a method and means for dietary control.

The method provides information to a person under dietary prior and during a meal regarding item positioned before the person in real time.

The system comprises in combination a video photographic means connected to a computer provided with a suitable database and further provided with a display unit connected to the computer.

Claims

1. A method for providing information to a person under dietary limitations, prior aid during a meal regarding a food item positioned before said person, and making available in real time guidance messages relating thereto, said method comprising the steps:

a) providing the user with video photographic means and directing same in the direction of food items;

b) correlating pictures obtained in step a) with electronically-stored pictures of food items for identification thereof;

c) correlating said identified food item with information stored in a data base regarding the content of the identified food regarding carbohydrates, protein, fat, amino acids and food constituents whichever is important for the person being monitored;

d) correlating information obtained in step c) with preprogrammed dietary restrictions of the person being monitored; and

e) generating a display message for the user including warnings and instructions regarding eating limitations for the photographed food item.

2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least a part of the required equipment for application of said method, including a video camera, earphones, and computing means is worn on the body of the person being monitored.

3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein step e) is carried out at least in part by means of a two-way communication link with a remote source.

4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said user is obese.

5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said user is diabetic.

6. A system for dietary control comprising in combination a video photographic means connected to a computer provided with a data base and a display means.