NANNY STATE: Canadian government app gives you points for eating well and making better health decisions

Well, it looks like at least one government is trying to do its best to improve the health prospects of its citizens. The Canadian government has just announced the launch of an app which will reward users with loyalty points for making healthier lifestyle choices. While the scheme is far from perfect, and several potential issues immediately spring to mind – like potential government overreach, loss of privacy, and possible incorrect health advice like “low fat and artificial sweeteners are healthy options” – at least the government has recognized the need to prevent lifestyle diseases rather than throwing pills at the problem.