Accessing Your Diary
To begin logging food in MyFitnessPal, you will start from the main Diary screen of the app. This is the central hub for tracking your daily intake. Simply tap the blue "+" button, which is prominently displayed at the bottom center of the screen, and then select the orange fork and knife "Food" icon. From here, you can choose which meal you would like to log food for: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, or Snacks. This intuitive navigation is the gateway to all logging functions.
Searching the Food Database
The most common method for adding food is searching MyFitnessPal's extensive database, which contains millions of entries.
Step 1: Search for Your Food
In the search bar at the top of the 'Add Food' screen, type in the name of the item. For best results, be specific. For example, instead of just "chicken breast," try searching "cooked chicken breast, boneless, skinless". Adding terms like "cooked," "raw," or the specific brand name can help you find a more accurate entry.
Step 2: Select the Best Match
A list of results will appear. Look for entries with a green checkmark next to them, as these are verified by MyFitnessPal for accuracy. However, if your specific item isn't verified, choose the entry that appears to be the most common or has nutritional information that aligns with the product's label. This improves the reliability of your data.
Step 3: Adjust Serving Size
After selecting the food, you will be prompted to adjust the serving size and number of servings. For the most precise tracking, it is best to use a food scale and measure in grams, especially for calorically dense foods. The app will allow you to change the serving unit (e.g., from cups to grams) and enter the exact amount consumed. Then, tap the checkmark to log the food to your diary.
Using the Barcode Scanner
For packaged foods, the barcode scanner is the fastest way to log your meal. As a reminder, the availability of this feature for free varies by region.
Step 1: Open the Scanner
On the 'Add Food' screen, tap the barcode icon, usually located at the top right. You may need to grant camera permission to the app. A camera view will appear on your screen.
Step 2: Scan the Barcode
Position your phone's camera over the barcode on the food package. Hold it steady until the app recognizes the code. The item's information will automatically appear on the screen.
Step 3: Confirm and Adjust
Once the product is identified, compare the nutritional information in the app with the packaging to ensure it is accurate. Adjust the serving size and quantity as needed before adding it to your diary.
Creating a Custom Food
When a specific food item cannot be found in the extensive database, creating a custom entry is the most accurate solution.
Step 1: Navigate to 'Create a New Food'
From the 'Add Food' screen, scroll down past the search results and tap the option to "Create a New Food".
Step 2: Enter Nutritional Information
Using the nutrition label from the packaging, you will be guided to enter the brand name, description, serving size, and all nutritional facts. It is recommended to use grams as the serving size for maximum precision.
Step 3: Save and Log
After entering all the details, save the custom food to your personal database. It will then be available under the "My Foods" tab for future, quick logging.
Saving Meals and Recipes
To streamline the logging process for meals you eat frequently, you can save them as a single item.
Step 1: Log the Individual Ingredients
First, log all the individual ingredients for a meal as you normally would. Once they are all in the diary for a specific meal, like "Lunch," tap the three dots at the bottom of that meal section.
Step 2: Save as a Meal or Recipe
Select "Save as Meal" from the menu that pops up. Give your meal a name, and it will be saved under the "My Meals" tab for future use. Alternatively, for more complex dishes with multiple ingredients, you can create a "Recipe" via the More tab, which allows you to import from a URL or add ingredients manually to calculate the nutritional breakdown per serving.
Method Comparison: Barcode Scan vs. Manual Entry
Understanding the trade-offs between logging methods can optimize your tracking efficiency.
| Method | Speed | Accuracy | Best For | Effort | Consistency | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barcode Scan | Fastest | High (for packaged goods) | Packaged foods, single items | Minimal | Excellent | Premium feature in some regions |
| Database Search | Medium | Variable | Common foods, restaurant items | Moderate | Good | Accuracy depends on entry selected |
| Custom Food | Slow | Highest | Homemade recipes, unique items | Highest | Excellent | Long-term use saves time |
| Save Meal/Recipe | Fast | Highest (re-use) | Repetitive meals, meal prep | High (initially) | Excellent | Time-saver for routines |
Conclusion: The Path to Consistent Logging
Adding food to MyFitnessPal is a fundamental step toward achieving your wellness goals. While there are multiple methods available—from the rapid-fire barcode scanner to the meticulous custom entry—consistency is the true key to success. Don't worry about being perfect from day one; instead, focus on building the habit of logging your food as accurately as possible with the tools provided. Over time, this practice will build your nutritional awareness, making the process faster and more intuitive. By using the search function for everyday items, scanning barcodes for packaged goods, and creating custom entries for homemade meals, you can maintain a comprehensive and reliable record of your diet, empowering you to make informed decisions for a healthier life.
Visit the official MyFitnessPal blog for more tips and guidance.
