Understanding Net Carbs and the MFP Premium Feature
Net carbs are essential for those on low-carb or ketogenic diets, representing the digestible carbohydrates that affect blood sugar. They are calculated by subtracting fiber and some sugar alcohols from total carbohydrates. While the free version of MyFitnessPal (MFP) only shows total carbs, requiring manual calculation, the Premium version includes a 'Net Carbs Mode'.
This Premium feature automatically displays net carbs instead of total carbs, simplifying tracking for dietary goals. The automation eliminates manual subtraction, making the tracking experience smoother. Currently, this feature is available only on iOS and Android mobile apps for users in the US and Canada.
How to Enable and Use Net Carbs Mode
To activate net carb tracking in MyFitnessPal, a Premium subscription is necessary. Once subscribed, follow these steps on the mobile app:
- Go to the "More" menu at the bottom of the screen.
- Select "Settings," then "Diary Settings".
- Turn on the "Track Net Carbs" option.
Once enabled, your diary will show net carbs automatically. You can also set specific net carb goals in your nutrition settings to align with your diet plan.
Comparing MFP's Net Carb Tracking
| Feature | MyFitnessPal (Premium) | MyFitnessPal (Free) | Other Keto Apps (e.g., Carb Manager) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Net Carb Tracking | Automatic, integrated feature | Manual calculation required | Typically integrated automatically |
| Cost | Premium subscription required | Free with optional purchases | Varies; many offer automatic tracking for free |
| Dashboard View | Displays net carbs on dashboard when activated | Shows total carbs, no net carb visibility | Often customizable to display net carbs prominently |
| Data Accuracy | Relies on user-submitted data, which can be inconsistent | Relies on user-submitted data | Can have more stringent data verification for keto foods |
| Customization | Allows setting specific net carb goals | No specific net carb goal setting | High degree of customization for keto macros |
| Platform | Mobile app (iOS/Android) only for feature | All platforms, but net carb feature is limited | Can vary by application |
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
The net carb feature is useful but has limitations. It typically does not account for sugar alcohols in its automatic calculation, which may still require manual adjustments for foods containing them. The app's reliance on user-submitted data can also lead to inaccuracies in nutritional information, including fiber content. Always verify data against product labels.
Best Practices for Tracking Net Carbs on MFP
To optimize net carb tracking with MFP Premium:
- Compare scanned food data with the product's nutrition label to ensure fiber content is accurate.
- Manually edit entries with incorrect data.
- Create custom food entries for recipes to ensure precise nutrient information.
- Focus on whole foods, which are easier to track due to fewer complex ingredients.
Conclusion: Making the Most of MFP for Low-Carb Diets
MyFitnessPal does track net carbs, but exclusively with a Premium subscription. This feature provides automatic net carb calculation, greatly benefiting those on low-carb or keto diets by eliminating manual subtraction and allowing specific net carb goals. While the free version lacks this, upgrading to Premium streamlines tracking. By following activation steps and best practices for data accuracy, MFP becomes an effective tool for managing carbohydrate intake and reaching dietary goals. For accurate low-carb tracking, Premium is a valuable investment.
For more information on net carbs and their role in diet, consult an official source such as the MyFitnessPal blog on what are net carbs.
Key Takeaways
- Premium Feature: Net carb tracking requires a MyFitnessPal Premium subscription and is available on the mobile app.
- Automatic Calculation: 'Net Carbs Mode' automatically subtracts fiber from total carbs for a real-time net carb count.
- Manual for Free Users: Free users must manually calculate net carbs.
- How to Activate: Enable the feature in the mobile app via More > Settings > Diary Settings > Track Net Carbs.
- Data Varies: Be aware of potential inaccuracies in the user-generated database and verify with product labels.
- Web Limitations: The net carb feature is not available on the MyFitnessPal website.
- Sugar Alcohols: Automatic calculation may not include sugar alcohols, potentially requiring manual tracking.
FAQs
Q: Is the net carb feature on MyFitnessPal free? A: No, net carb tracking is a MyFitnessPal Premium feature.
Q: How do I turn on net carb tracking in MyFitnessPal? A: Premium users can enable it via More > Settings > Diary Settings > Track Net Carbs in the mobile app.
Q: Does MFP's net carb calculation include sugar alcohols? A: No, the feature typically does not automatically deduct sugar alcohols.
Q: Can I see net carbs on the MyFitnessPal website? A: No, 'Net Carbs Mode' is only on the mobile app (iOS and Android).
Q: Why are my net carbs different from what I calculated manually? A: Discrepancies can be due to inaccurate user-submitted data. Verify with product labels or create custom foods.
Q: What is the difference between total carbs and net carbs in MyFitnessPal? A: Total carbs include all carbohydrates, while net carbs (Premium) subtract fiber.
Q: Is the net carb feature available in all countries? A: No, it's currently available for Premium users in the US and Canada.
