[Information and communication technologies for weight loss].

The potential of information and communication technologies has quickly been identified for health and in particular to promote weight loss. Several types of technologies exist with varying degrees of efficiency. These include programs on the Internet, using text messages, smartphone applications or portable devices. All these technologies are based on a set of weight loss strategies known to be effective, such as self-monitoring, feedback and social support. Despite promising results, several important limitations must be addressed such as the quality of the information being disseminated, the risk of promoting eating disorders, the place of these tools in patient follow-up, as well as data confidentiality issues.