Beth Hilgartner, a 68-year-old woman, lost 50 pounds (3 stone 8lb) using the Simple smartphone app after her doctor warned her that her blood levels, cholesterol, and blood glucose had reached dangerous levels. Faced with the choice of medication or lifestyle changes, she turned to the app and shed a pound per week.
Doctor's warning prompts action
Following a routine check-up in June 2024, Beth's GP informed her that her blood levels, cholesterol, and blood glucose were unhealthy. "I had a really visceral reaction that surprised me," she said. She chose to make lifestyle changes rather than go on medication.
Beth had struggled with weight for years. "I've tried the restrictive diets and I can lose a few pounds. Then I stop the restrictive diet and I gain it all back," she explained. After an unsuccessful attempt with another restrictive diet, a friend suggested intermittent fasting, leading her to discover the Simple app.
How the Simple app works
Simple is an AI-powered coaching app that offers tailored daily workouts, scientifically-backed guidance, and nutritional analysis. It features an intermittent fasting tracker, a NutriScanner for meal analysis, and Avo, an in-app coach that answers questions. The app also provides daily workout plans including yoga, pilates, HIIT, walking, and Tai Chi.
Beth used the intermittent fasting concept, limiting her eating window. "I thought I will try Simple, drink black coffee and do this eating window concept for three weeks," she said. She lost a pound weekly and ultimately 50 pounds.
User experience and features
Beth appreciated not having to measure food. "The Simple app gives me advice. It says your portion size should be the size of your palm," she said. The app also tracks hydration and movement. Avo recommended healthy snacks like hummus vegetable dip and suggested using a standing desk or taking walks to stay healthy during computer hours.
Beth, an avid horse rider, found the app flexible. "I do dressage riding three or four times a week, yoga weekly, and other movement therapy for balance and mobility," she said.
App ratings and user feedback
Simple has over 17 million downloads, a 4.3 out of 5 star rating on Trustpilot, a 4.7 rating on AppStore, and was named the top app of 2025 by Forbes. Users praised its ease of use and support. One reviewer said, "Easy to use. Fantastic support and interaction with the Coach. Exercises are achievable or adjustable if needed." Another noted, "They took my concern very seriously and with efficiency."
Some criticism included difficulty logging exercise sequences and syncing steps. However, most users were satisfied, with one stating, "The support team member was able to assist me with my order and was extremely prompt. Very good customer service!"
Alternatives and availability
Alternatives include Noom, which emphasizes mindful eating, and MyFitnessPal, a calorie tracking tool. Simple offers an 80% discount with code REACH and a 2-for-1 subscription option. Beth concluded, "Simple, I'm really glad I found you. I hope lots of other people find you too."
