Understanding Sugar Goals in MyFitnessPal
Before adjusting goals, it's helpful to understand MyFitnessPal's sugar tracking. The app's defaults provide a broad 'Total Sugar' goal but don't differentiate between added sugars (sodas, candy) and naturally occurring sugars (fruits, dairy). For general wellness, managing total sugar is sufficient. However, MyFitnessPal Premium offers more control, which may appeal to those with specific dietary needs or health conditions.
Changing Your Sugar Goal on the MyFitnessPal Mobile App (iOS & Android)
The process is straightforward, but options depend on free or Premium. These steps guide the process.
Step 1: Navigate to the Goals Section
Open the MyFitnessPal app. Tap the 'More' tab, usually in the bottom right. In the menu, tap 'Goals'.
Step 2: Access Your Nutritional Goals
In 'Goals,' scroll to 'Nutrition Goals.' To change your sugar target, select 'Additional Nutrient Goals'. Enter gram-level goals for micronutrients, including sugar.
Step 3: Enter Your Custom Sugar Goal
Locate 'Sugar' and tap it. Enter your desired daily sugar limit in grams and save the changes.
Limitations of the Free App
The free version allows manual input for sugar in 'Additional Nutrient Goals,' but it can't calculate macro percentages. To change your sugar target in relation to overall macros, adjust your carbohydrate percentage. Since MyFitnessPal's standard macro tracker (Carbs, Protein, Fat) is adjusted using a percentage wheel that must total 100%, altering the carb percentage will indirectly affect your sugar budget.
Changing Your Sugar Goal on the MyFitnessPal Website
The MyFitnessPal website offers an alternative. Website changes sync with the mobile app.
Step 1: Log in and Go to 'My Home'
Log in at www.myfitnesspal.com. Click 'My Home' from the top navigation bar, then 'Goals' from the dropdown menu.
Step 2: Edit Your Nutrition Goals
On the Goals page, find 'Daily Nutrition Goals' and click 'Edit.' Adjust calorie and macronutrient percentages. To modify your sugar target, find the 'Micronutrients' or 'Additional Nutrient Goals' option and enter your desired sugar target, similar to the mobile app.
Comparison: Free vs. Premium for Custom Goals
| Feature | MyFitnessPal Free | MyFitnessPal Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Access to Goals | Limited customization via macro percentages; manual entry for sugar | Full control over custom goals in grams, including sugar |
| Macro Adjustment | Adjusts macros via a percentage wheel in 5% increments | Set precise macro goals in gram increments |
| Nutrient Tracking | Tracks total sugar, along with basic macro and micronutrients | Enhanced nutrient insights, including macro breakdown by meal |
| Daily Goals | Single daily goal for all days of the week | Set custom daily goals for different days of the week |
| Ad Experience | Features in-app advertisements | Ad-free experience |
Tips for Managing Your Sugar Intake Effectively
- Prioritize Added Sugar: Nutrition experts recommend limiting added sugar intake. Identify added sugars using the ingredients list.
- Start with Small Changes: Make gradual reductions to give your taste buds time to adjust. Swap out sugary drinks.
- Log Consistently: Consistent logging provides an accurate picture of your dietary habits, making it easier to meet your goals.
- Consider Outbound Links: For more insights on the difference between natural and added sugars, you can consult resources like the CDC's recommendations on added sugars.
Conclusion
MyFitnessPal helps change and manage sugar goals, whether free or Premium. The process is a simple adjustment within the app's or website's 'Goals' section. By understanding the different capabilities and focusing your efforts on limiting added sugars, you can take a significant step toward improving your nutritional habits and overall health. Making small, consistent adjustments is a sustainable strategy for lasting success. If you find yourself needing more precise control over your macronutrients, upgrading to Premium might be a worthwhile investment to unlock gram-based goal setting and other advanced features.
