For my Automation Project, I have created a "simple reminder program," to help me remember to take certain vitamins I need during the winter. I grew up in Canada so I am used to long, dark, cold winters. This problem causes many individuals to experience very low vitamin D levels, which is a vitamin that is also needed for our bodies to absorb calcium. Me and my family are annually prescribed vitamin D tablets, however, I always forget to take these tablets on a daily basis. Now that I am living in Germany, I want to make it a priorityy to take the necessary vitamins I need to stay healthy and prevent illness. With this automation, it has encouraged and reminded me to take my tablets daily, and has helped me with my forgetfulness.

In my blog I will also discuss the fascinating realm of AI's potential to shape the future of nutrition and medicine, exploring innovative technologies and their impact on our futures food production, supply chains, personalized dietary recommendations, and overall health. I am very passionate about studying Nutrition, as I studied it back home, and I have gained a new interest to combine Nutrition with artificial intelligence technology. I am exploring the possibilities AI presents in optimizing nutrition, reducing food waste, and revolutionizing the way we approach healthy living. I hope you enjoy my blog, and how our evolving technology meets the world of nutrition, creating a healthier and more sustainable future for everyone on the planet.

• Problem and Context of the Automation:

To begin the "Creating a reminder system on Ubuntu," I use a combination of a command-line tool on Ubuntu and the ssh command to trigger a notification, to notify me on my Mac.

For the next process I needed to "Create a script for the reminder": The script i chose was called "vitamin_reminder.sh" using a text editor:

Next I used "osascript" on macOS, it is a command-line tool that allows you to run AppleScript commands from the terminal.

To Make the script executable:

Lastly I used the "at" command to Schedule the reminder and to schedule the script to run at a specific time:

I had to manually install the command "at" on to my ubuntu using: "sudo apt-get install at" on my Terminal. This command allows you to schedule a one-time job to be executed at a specific time in the future. In case, I wanted to schedule my vitamin reminder script to run at a specific time.

The Time I set it to was 15:30🕞 every day!

To make sure that my automation was running properly, there were three ways that I used to check:

• The first way was to wait for the Time: 15:30 for a notification to pop up on my screen.

• The second was to check, I opened Terminal on my Ubuntu and typed the command 'atq'to "view scheduled jobs" for the day. Just like the 'at' command, I also had to manually install this: for which I used the command -

This 'atq' command displayed the job numbers and the times they are scheduled to run. Since my vitamin reminder was scheduled, I was able to see it in the list.

• The Third way I could Manually Trigger the Reminder:

I wanted to quickly test my script without waiting for the scheduled time, so I learned how to execute it manually. I went to the script's directory and typed the command:

I did encounter several problems along the way. Many times when i tried to execute a certain command, I had recieved alot of "Syntax Error" while trying to run the script. So I had to go back many times and check any mistakes I have made. I had to check for Errors in the message, and review the script. Also when I was checking to see if the project was working and I typed the "at" command, it showed me a pop up that said "Garbled Time" indicating that something was wrong, so I also had to research ways to avoid this. The "garbled time" error with the "at" command occurs when there's an issue with the time format tha I was providing. The "at" command needs the time to be specified in a specific format in order to work. In Ubuntu, the time format should be in HH:MM (24-hour clock), which is a mistake I made in the beginning not using 24 hour time format. I had to make sure my Ubuntu system was up to date, so I used the command "sudo apt-get update" and "sudo apt-get upgrade." Another problem I ran in to was connecting my work on Ubuntu to my mac. To do this I had to Enable "SSH" on Ubuntu. To make sure my Ubuntu machine had the SSH server installed and running following command:

Next was a very Important step with connecting my mac with ubuntu. I learned about a website cal "Todoist.com." With this website I made an account, and also made an account through Ubuntu. I was able to connect and sync both devices together, so that whatever I do on my mac, also happens on my ubuntu software, and vice versa.

The photo above is a screenshot of my mac in the process of connecting my ubuntu automation, to my regular desktop.

I also wanted to connect the reminder to a sound, or a chime. So I not only see the message, "take your vitamins" but also to hear it. I was able to add the sound by using the terminal on my ubuntu. I used the following commands:

The "paplay" I had to install in order to start choosing what sound I want to hear. While adjusting the sound settings on my terminal to make it audible.

I also wanted to make sure that my automation was able to run automatically everyday at the same time. After searching online, I found a command called "cron." This enabled me to have the reminder message pop up automatically every day at the same time. 'cron' allows you to schedule tasks at predefined times. The command I used: crontab -e. And I had to find a command to let me adjust the time that I wanted the chime to go off, so I used the command "echo."

Cost-Benefit-Analysis:

My Automation project took me about two weeks to create. However, it took me several weeks trying to brainstorm what to automate. I came up with different ideas, but none seemed worth investing time into. Until I came up with this project, that will benefit me at the moment, and will also benefit me in the future. I consider myself to be a busy person, and I am often very forgetful of tasks i need to fulfill unless I am reminded or write them down. Now with the success of my project I am no longer forgetful to take my much needed vitamins during the cold winter months. And with learning how to automate this project, I can create new automations in the future to benefit me.

I believe that my automation project is economically beneficial because it is important to get a balance source of vitamins and minerals for overall health. If people are regularly taking their nutrients, it can improve their health, and with a healthy individual that can lead to increased productivity. If employees or individuals maintain better health by taking their vitamins regularly, they may experience fewer sick days and higher energy levels. This can contribute to better performance at work or in daily activities. Another example includes "Reduced Healthcare Costs": By promoting preventive health measures, like vitamin intake, there may be a reduction in healthcare costs associated with treating illnesses or conditions that could have been prevented with lifestyle. Healthier individuals might require fewer medical interventions and medications, saving them the cost.

Nutrition is critically important for maintaining overall health and well-being. The food and drinks we consume provide essential nutrients our bodies need to function properly. Nutrition is fundamental for overall health and plays a vital role in preventing various diseases and promoting well-being at every stage of life. Technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach nutrition, from personalized dietary recommendations to improved food production and distribution. The future of medical nutrition will need to consider the environmental impact of dietary choices and address ethical concerns related to food production, animal welfare, and sustainable sourcing. Sustainable and ethical nutrition practices will also be important for the long-term health of both individuals and the planet.

Technology has the potential to significantly improve our future in nutrition by offering innovative solutions to various challenges related to food production, distribution, and individual dietary choices. Here are some ways technology can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future in nutrition:

• Precision Agriculture:

Technology, including sensors, drones, and satellite imagery, can be used in precision agriculture to monitor crops, optimize irrigation, and apply fertilizers more efficiently. This can enhance crop yields and the nutritional content of foods.

• Smart Farming Practices:

Internet of Things (IoT:connecting physical devices to the internet, to create a more efficient and interconnected world, where data can be analyzed and used to make informed decisions, optimize processes, and enhance overall functionality). devices and smart sensors can be employed in farming to monitor soil health, crop growth, and environmental conditions. This data can help farmers make informed decisions and optimize farming practices for better nutritional outcomes.

• Food Tracking Apps:

Mobile apps and wearable devices can enable individuals to track their daily food intake, monitor nutritional content, and receive personalized recommendations. This can promote better awareness of dietary habits and encourage healthier choices. These devices can be used for any individual, but can be especially important for those who are ill, where certain nutrients play a crucial role in preventing certain diseases and supporting overall health. A balanced with nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute to various physiological functions and can help the body fight off infections and worsening of their disease. An example of such a device to aid a patient with Type two Diabetes: A device that can continuously monitor your sugar levels, and tell you what foods to eat during the day, for example to focus on complex carbohydrates, fiber, and moderate amounts of healthy fats and proteins to help manage blood sugar levels and support overall diabetes management. Daily medical assitance of a Technological Device can provide an opportunity to aid an indiduals health, if they are not able to recive physical assistance or advice from a doctor as often as they need.

• 3D Printing of Food:

3D printing technology can be used to create customized food items with specific nutritional profiles. This has the potential to address individual dietary needs and preferences more precisely.

• Telehealth and Virtual Nutrition Counseling:

Telehealth services and virtual consultations can make nutrition advice more accessible to a broader audience. This is particularly beneficial for individuals in remote areas or those with limited access to healthcare services.

• AI-Powered Nutritional Analysis:

Artificial intelligence can analyze vast datasets to identify patterns and correlations related to nutrition and health. AI algorithms can provide personalized dietary recommendations based on individual health data. AI can analyze individual health data, including genetic information, lifestyle, and dietary preferences, to provide personalized nutrition recommendations. This ensures that individuals receive dietary advice tailored to their specific needs, body compostitions, or genetic makeup. The future of AI-powered systems could potentially monitor and ensure the quality and safety of food products. This includes detecting contaminants, spoilage, and fraudulent practices in the food supply chain, thereby enhancing food safety.

• Biometric Sensors and Wearables:

Biometric sensors and wearables can provide real-time data on individuals' health metrics, allowing for more accurate and personalized nutritional recommendations.

By harnessing the power of technology in these ways, we can address nutritional challenges, promote healthier dietary choices, and work towards a more sustainable and resilient food system for the future. It's essential to consider ethical considerations and ensure that these technologies are accessible and beneficial for diverse populations. These technologies can be used temporarily, or for long term use to provide support to those who are seeking to improve their health, or for any kind of recovery from an illness that requires a precise diet high in certain nutrients. The goal of these technologies would be to assist us in our day to day lives if we are not able to get the information directly or as quickly from a medical professional.

The future of sustainable food production with the integration of AI and technologies holds significant promise for addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing the global food system. Several concerns and challenges are anticipated in the future of food production, driven by a combination of factors such as population growth, climate change, environmental degradation, and socio-economic issues. Currently, and more in our future we will be dealing with the following: Impact of Climate Change, Water Scarcity, Soil Degradation, Loss of Biodiversity, Loss of Traditional Farming Knowledge, Social Inequities in Access to Food,etc. It is crucial to prioritize the development of resilient, equitable, and environmentally sustainable food systems to ensure a secure and nutritious food supply for the growing global population. Some examples of how development in Technologies focused on Agriculture and Nutriton can benefit us in our future:

• Increased Efficiency and Productivity:

AI-driven precision agriculture will enable farmers to optimize resource use, resulting in increased crop yields with minimal waste. Automation and robotics can streamline various tasks in farming, reducing the reliance on manual labor and improving overall efficiency.

• Climate-Resilient Agriculture:

AI can aid in developing climate-resilient crops and farming practices by analyzing data on weather patterns, soil conditions, and other factors. Predictive modeling can help farmers adapt to changing climate conditions and mitigate the impact of extreme weather events on crops.

• Diversification of Protein Sources:

Continued advancements in alternative protein sources, facilitated by AI, may lead to a more diversified and sustainable food landscape, reducing dependence on traditional livestock farming.

• Smart Supply Chains:

AI-driven supply chain optimization will lead to reduced food waste, improved inventory management, and more efficient transportation, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient food distribution system.

• Data-Driven Decision-Making for Farmers:

Farmers equipped with AI tools and data analytics can make informed decisions about planting, harvesting, and resource management, improving overall agricultural practices and sustainability.

• Biodiversity Conservation:

AI can aid in monitoring and preserving biodiversity by helping farmers implement practices that support ecosystem health and diversity.

• Climate Modeling and Adaptation:

AI can assist in climate modeling to predict the impact of climate change on crop yields and help farmers adapt their practices accordingly. This includes adjusting planting schedules, choosing more suitable crops, and implementing sustainable farming methods.

• Robotic Farming:

AI-powered robots can perform various tasks in agriculture, such as planting, harvesting, and weeding. This automation can reduce the need for manual labor, increase efficiency, and minimize the environmental impact of traditional farming practices.

• Education and Training:

AI-driven platforms can provide farmers with access to training programs and educational resources, empowering them with the knowledge and skills needed to adopt sustainable farming practices.

While these advancements hold great promise, it's essential to consider potential challenges, such as ethical considerations, data privacy, and the digital divide. Additionally, policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders need to collaborate to ensure that AI in agriculture is deployed in ways that benefit the environment, society, and the economy. Through responsible and sustainable implementation, AI and technologies can contribute significantly to a more resilient, efficient, and environmentally friendly food production system for the future.

This field explores the interaction between nutrition and genetics,the relationship between the human genome, human nutrition and health, and how nutrients can affect our genes expression.

Future technologies in Nutrigenomics can provide accurate nutrtion plans for pregnant women:

As technology continues to advance, several potential technological breakthroughs in nutrigenomics may emerge in the future. For an expecting mother, good nutrtion plays a crucial role in the develpment of the fetus. It can have a lasting impact on the baby's health, influencing their gene expression. Future possible technologies in the Field of Nutrigenomics can provide accurate "Personalized Nutrition Plans": For example, taking DNA samples from pregnant women, then using AI algorithms to analyze individual health data, including genetic information, lifestyle, and medical history, to create personalized nutrition plans for pregnant women. This could optimize nutrient intake based on specific needs and potential risks.

Another example could be "Virtual Nutrition Assistants": Virtual assistants powered by AI could answer questions and provide advice related to nutrition during pregnancy. These assistants could offer guidance on meal planning, appropriate portion sizes, and the importance of specific nutrients. The ability to have a virtual assistant that is available 24/7 is very convenient: they can ask questions at any time addressing concerns that may arise outside regular office hours.and receive immediate, reliable responses. This technology would be programmed to give expert level knowledge, to aid the mother during her pregnancy and provide advice and guidance. With this technology, its important to consider Cultural sensitivity, when providing advice. Virtual assistants can be designed to respect and accommodate cultural differences, providing advice and information that aligns with diverse cultural norms and practices. They can inform the person what to expect during different trimesters. This empowers pregnant women with knowledge about their own health and the health of their baby. Also, if necessary, Virtual assistants could offer emotional support by providing information about common pregnancy-related concerns and offering relaxation techniques. This can help reduce stress and anxiety during pregnancy.

They could also be able to Remind and Alert: AI-powered virtual assistants can send reminders to ensure that pregnant women are staying on track with their nutrition and are meeting their daily dietary goals. This could include reminders for taking prenatal vitamins, consuming certain food groups, or staying hydrated. Possibilities to make this possible, would be to integrate with wearable devices or health apps to access real-time health data. This integration can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the user's overall health, allowing for more precise and personalized recommendations based on changes in vital signs. This approach helps identify potential issues early on, promoting a healthier pregnancy. Virtual nutrition assistants would be programmed to continuously learn from user interactions and updates in nutritional science. This would ensure that the advice provided is up-to-date and aligns with the latest research in prenatal nutrition. AI-powered imaging and monitoring technologies can enhance the monitoring of fetal development during pregnancy. This includes the use of advanced imaging techniques and wearable devices to track fetal growth, movement, and overall well-being.

AI and more robotic development has the potential to revolutionize the food industry in many different ways, offering businesses new opportunities for efficiency, innovation, and customer engagement. One of the biggest problems that restaraunts and other food service industries are facing, is Food Waste. It is estimated that around one-third of all food produced globally is wasted. This has a significant environmental impact and is leading to valuable resources and financial losses for businesses. An example of such an advancement is using artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to analyze data and predict food demand more accurately. There are several ways these new technologies could benefit businesses in the food industry in the future. Some other examples include:

1. Artificial Intelligence to manage food waste:

Despite technological advancements and increased awareness about sustainability, as humans, we still continue to struggle with the issue of discarding massive amounts of food. Speaking for specifically about the food industry, (examples include:Agriculture production, Retail and Food Service, Distribution and Logistics:Companies, Retailers:Supermarkets,Fast-Food Chains, etc.)its common to make the mistake of overproduction, leading to surplus goods that may unessecarily and eventually find their way to landfills. Driven by aesthetic preferences, we tend to reject perfectly good produce due to minor imperfections. The obsession with flawless-looking fruits and vegetables contributes to a wasteful cycle, disregarding the nutritious value. It is also a possibility that many people are not fully aware of the environmental and social impact of food waste. Lack of knowledge about proper storage, meal planning, and understanding of expiration dates can contribute to unnecessary disposal. Also to consider Economic Incentives for buisnesses. In some cases, economic incentives might not align with efforts to reduce food waste. For example, businesses might prefer to discard unsold items rather than donating them due to perceived costs and liabilities.

• Agriculture: solutions using AI technology in the future can be: a). to use AI-driven technologies, such as sensors, drones, and satellite imagery, to provide real-time data on crop health, soil conditions, and weather patterns. This could enable farmers to optimize irrigation, fertilization, and pest control, reducing the likelihood of crop loss and increasing overall yield.

b). Predictive Analytics for Crop Yield: AI algorithms can analyze historical data, weather patterns, and other factors to predict crop yields more accurately. Farmers can use these predictions to adjust planting schedules, manage resources efficiently, and avoid overproduction or underproduction.

c). Supply Chain Optimization: AI can improve the efficiency of the entire agricultural supply chain, from farm to market. By predicting demand, optimizing transportation routes, and managing inventory effectively, AI can help minimize delays and losses along the way.

d). Early Detection of Diseases and Pests: AI can analyze data from various sources, including sensors and satellite imagery, to detect early signs of diseases or pest infestations. This allows farmers to take proactive measures to prevent widespread crop damage and losses.

• Retail and Food Service

a). Waste Tracking and Analytics: AI systems can track and analyze data on food waste generation. By identifying patterns and trends, businesses can implement targeted strategies to reduce waste in specific areas of their operations.

b). Automated Donation Matching: AI-powered platforms can connect businesses that have a surplus in food, to local charities and organizations in need. By automating the donation process, edible food can be redirected to those who can use it, reducing waste and supporting community initiatives.

c). Smart Shelves and Labels: RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification. A technology that uses radio waves to wirelessly transmit data between a tag attached to an object and a reader) and IoT-enabled smart shelves which could have the ability to communicate with AI systems to monitor product freshness and expiration dates in real-time. This information can be displayed on smart labels, alerting both staff and customers about items nearing their expiration dates

• Supermarkets

a). Intelligent Recommendations for Stock Rotation: AI algorithms created to analyze sales patterns, shelf life data, and customer preferences to recommend optimal stock rotation strategies. This ensures that products with shorter shelf lives are positioned prominently, increasing their chances of being sold before expiration.

b). Dynamic Pricing Strategies: AI in the future could dynamically adjust prices based on various factors such as expiration dates, remaining shelf life, and real-time demand. The technology would offer discounts on products nearing their expiration date, and encourage customers to purchase them, reducing the likelihood of items going to waste.

c). Smart Shopping Carts and Apps: AI-integrated shopping carts or mobile apps can provide real-time information to shoppers about product freshness, discounts, and recipes based on items in their cart. This empowers consumers to make informed choices and helps prevent impulse purchases that may contribute to food waste.

d). Waste Analytics for Decision-Making: AI analytics tools to provide supermarkets with insights into their waste patterns. This information can help management make data-driven decisions, such as adjusting procurement practices, optimizing layouts, or fine-tuning inventory management strategies. Waste analytics can help pinpoint the root causes of food waste. Whether it's due to inefficient supply chain practices, inaccurate demand and inventory management, AI can analyze the data to identify areas that require improvement. By incorporating waste analytics into their decision-making processes,supermarkets could reduce food waste but also enhance their operational efficiency, improve customer satisfaction, and contribute to a more sustainable and responsible business model. The insights from AI analytics empower supermarkets to make data-driven decisions that align with our future need for minimizing waste and optimizing resource utilization.

• Other examples of AI technology that can aid the Food Industry:

2). Customer Experience Enhancement for Menu Optimization

AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants can be used to improve customer service, handle orders, and provide personalized recommendations. This could enhance the overall customer experience and increases customer satisfaction. The goal of this technology would be to analyze individual preferences, dietary restrictions, and health data to provide personalized nutrition recommendations. This could lead to the development of customized food products or meal plans. Restaurants and food service businesses can use AI to analyze customer preferences, track popular trends, and optimize their menus. This can help businesses tailor their offerings to meet customer expectations and boost sales.

3. AI for Food Safety:

"An estimated 600 million – almost 1 in 10 people in the world fall ill after eating contaminated food and 420,000 die every year, resulting in the loss of 33 million healthy life years."

Foodborne illnesses can be infectious or toxic and are caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites or chemical substances entering the body through contaminated food. There is also chemical contamination which can lead to acute poisoning or long-term diseases, such as cancer. Many foodborne diseases may lead to long-lasting disability and death. Urbanization and changes in consumer habits have increased the number of people buying and eating food prepared in public places. Due to globalization, we are currently facing growing consumer demands for a wider variety of foods, from all across the globe; Our population is projected to increase, leading to greater demand for food production. As global food supply chains are becomming more interconnected, there is an increased risk of the rapid spread of foodborne pathogens across borders. Contaminated food products may be distributed over long distances, making it challenging to control outbreaks and trace the source of contamination. These demands are also putting more responsibility on food producers and handlers who need to ensure our food safety, and enable all people to have safe, nutritious, and enough food for their dietary needs and preferences.

How can the use of artifical intelligence help us with this problem in the future?

Putting the use of AI technology in the food industry holds great potential to enhance food safety. Methods like "Predictive Analytics" to analyze historical data on food safety incidents, supply chain information, and environmental factors to predict potential risks. This enables proactive measures to be taken to prevent contamination or other safety issues.

• Using Early Detection and Surveillance from AI algorithms to analyze vast amounts of data, for example: social media, news reports, and healthcare records, to detect early signs of foodborne illness outbreaks. By identifying patterns and anomalies, AI systems can provide early warnings, allowing authorities to take swift action to contain the spread.

• Quality Control in Food Processing: Computer vision and machine learning algorithms can be applied to enhance quality control in food processing. Automated systems can detect anomalies, contaminants, or defects in food products, ensuring that only safe items reach consumers.

• Blockchain for Traceability:

("As each transaction occurs, it is recorded as a “block” of data." Blockchain Technology allows information to be recieved quickly and can keep track orders, store information, payments, accounts, production and much more.) Each piece of information about a product or a batch of products is recorded in a block. This information can include details such as the date of production, location, batch numbers, etc. Blockchain traceability refers to the use of blockchain technology to create an unchangeable record of the origin, journey, and handling of products throughout the supply chain. This tech. can be accessed by multiple parties in a network. In the context of traceability, blockchain provides an ability to track and verify the history of products from their source to their destination. Blockchain technology, combined with AI, can provide a traceable record of the entire food supply chain. This ensures that the source of contamination can be quickly identified, allowing for targeted recalls and minimizing the impact on public health.

I truly believe the integration of artificial intelligence into medicial nutrition holds immense promise for the future well-being of humanity. The combination of AI and nutritional science has potential to revolutionize personalized healthcare, providing tailored dietary recommendations that are uniquely suited to an individual's genetic makeup, health history, and lifestyle. AI's capacity to analyze vast datasets allows for a deeper understanding between genetics, dietary habits, and health outcomes. This knowledge can enable healthcare professionals to develop interventions, as well as optimizing nutritional plans for individuals with the most precision. The utilization of AI in medical nutrition can also contribute to more cost-effective and sustainable healthcare systems. By preventing and managing chronic conditions through personalized nutrition strategies, the burden on healthcare resources could be alleviated, leading to improved overall public health.

In my blog I discussed the topics of future AI technology possibilities, and where it can lead to, in improving our approach to medical nutrition; for example: Precision Agriculture and smart farming practices, Telehealth and Virtual Nutrition Counseling, AI-powered robots to perform various tasks in agriculture, to aid businesses in the food industry, Global Food waste, and using AI for Food Safety.

As we enter a new era in technology, the integration of AI in medical nutrition could pave the way for a future where personalized nutrition, guided by the intelligence of machines, becomes a cornerstone in the pursuit of healthier, happier, and more resilient human lives.

I would like to express my gratitude to the reader for taking the time to read my blog, and explore with me the "future possibilities of medical nutrition!" I hope the information provided has been insightful, thought-provoking and valuable. My goal was to contribute to a greater understanding of the role nutrition plays in our health and well-being, and the journey toward a healthier, more informed lifestyle.