Exploring artificial intelligence literacy’s role in healthy behaviors and mental health

Healthy behavior has long been linked to mental health outcomes. However, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) literacy in shaping healthy behaviors and its potential impact on mental health remains underexplored. This paper presents a scoping review offering a novel perspective on the intersection of healthy behaviors, mental health, and AI literacy. By examining how individuals' understanding of AI influences their choices regarding nutrition and their susceptibility to mental health issues, the current study explores emerging trends in health behavior decision-making. This emphasizes the need for integrating AI literacy into mental health and health behaviors education, as well as the development of AI-driven tools to support healthier behavior choices. It highlights that individuals with low AI literacy may misinterpret or overly depend on AI guidance, resulting in maladaptive health choices, while those with high AI literacy may be more likely to engage reflectively and sustain positive behaviors. The paper outlines the importance of inclusive education, user-centered design, and community-based support systems to enhance AI literacy for digitally marginalized groups. AI literacy may be positioned as a key determinant of health equity, better allowing for interdisciplinary strategies that empower individuals to make informed, autonomous decisions that promote both physical and mental health.