The Accuracy of Fitbit in Tracking Cardio Health
Fitbit, a popular wearable device, has gained immense popularity for its ability to track various health metrics, including cardio health. This article discusses the accuracy of Fitbit in tracking cardio health based on the experiences of a user who has been using various Fitbit models.
Fitbit and Heart Rate Tracking
Heart rate is a crucial metric for tracking cardiovascular health. The Fitbit Charge 3, in particular, provides accurate heart rate monitoring. It uses heart rate data, along with user profile information like age, weight, and other data points, to estimate VO2 max, a measure of cardio health. As the user mentioned, the more you use the device and exercise with it, the better the estimates become. Additionally, using the GPS function during outdoor activities such as running or cycling further enhances the accuracy of the device.
Saving a Life with Fitbit
The user also shares a personal story of how Fitbit saved her life. She mentioned that her Fitbit Charge 3 alerted her to an unusually high heart rate, which ranged from 60 to 65 beats per minute, significantly deviating from her usual rate. Following a series of colds and flu infections, her heart rate and breathing never fully recovered, presenting symptoms that were consistent with hyperthyroidism.
Medical Diagnosis and Treatment
Despite a negative chest X-ray, the doctor diagnosed the user with hyperthyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms include a higher-than-normal heart rate, which can be exacerbated by the increased metabolic rate. The Fitbit's consistent monitoring of her heart rate played a crucial role in identifying these irregularities, leading to the diagnosis and subsequent treatment.
Comparing Fitbit to Medical Devices
The user also compares her Fitbit readings with those taken in a medical setting. She mentions that her Fitbit readings often match the readings taken by her doctors within a few beats. This consistency is further validated by the fact that doctors manually take her pulse for the most accurate reading, and the Fitbit still matches closely.
Calorie Buring Estimates and Limitations
While the article emphasizes the accuracy of Fitbit in heart rate and VO2 max tracking, it also notes that the device may not be as accurate in estimating calories burned. This inaccuracy is due to the nature of the technology used and the specific metrics it measures. Fitbit is primarily designed to measure VO2 Max, which is a better indicator of energy output during aerobic activities like running or cycling. It may not accurately estimate calories burned during anaerobic activities, like weight lifting, where it often underestimates the actual calorie burn.
Despite these limitations, the user concludes that Fitbit remains a valuable tool for tracking overall health and fitness, providing consistent and accurate data for the vast majority of activities.