Built-in Time-Restricted Fasting Options
MyFitnessPal offers an Intermittent Fasting Tracker exclusively for its Premium members, focusing on time-restricted eating (TRE). TRE involves fasting for a set number of hours each day, followed by an eating window. The app provides three primary, pre-set schedules that users can easily select and switch between. These are the core of what are the intermittent fasting options on MyFitnessPal within the official tracker.
- 12:12 Method: A beginner-friendly 12-hour fasting window and 12-hour eating window. It often aligns with the body's natural circadian rhythm.
- 14:10 Method: A moderate progression with a 14-hour fast and 10-hour eating window.
- 16:8 Method: A popular method with a 16-hour fast and 8-hour eating window.
How to Use the Fasting Tracker Features
The Intermittent Fasting Tracker is a Premium feature found in the "More" menu. Users manually start and stop fasts daily, which offers flexibility. The app allows editing and manually entering missed fasts. A progress bar in the Diary shows proximity to completing a fast.
Limitations and Workarounds for Other IF Methods
MyFitnessPal's tracker is limited to the three time-restricted patterns. Methods like 5:2 or Eat-Stop-Eat are not natively tracked. However, MyFitnessPal's calorie and macro tracking can be used as a workaround, especially for Premium users who can customize daily calorie goals. For the 5:2 diet, a Premium user can set lower calorie goals for fasting days.
Comparison of MyFitnessPal's Built-in IF Options
| Feature | 12:12 Method | 14:10 Method | 16:8 Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fasting Window | 12 hours | 14 hours | 16 hours |
| Eating Window | 12 hours | 10 hours | 8 hours |
| Typical Schedule | Example: Finish dinner by 7 PM, eat breakfast at 7 AM | Example: Finish dinner by 7 PM, eat lunch at 9 AM | Example: Skip breakfast, eat lunch at 12 PM and finish dinner by 8 PM |
| Best For | Beginners, syncing with circadian rhythm, avoiding late-night snacking | Easing into more extended fasting, curbing non-essential snacks | Experienced fasters, maximum fat-burning potential within the app |
Conclusion
MyFitnessPal provides a streamlined way for Premium users to track time-restricted intermittent fasting. The 12:12, 14:10, and 16:8 options, manual timer, and history log make it a convenient all-in-one tracking solution. While the tracker has limitations for more advanced methods, the app's functionality allows for workarounds using custom calorie goals. MyFitnessPal offers versatile support for various intermittent fasting approaches by combining features. For more details on the feature, visit the official MyFitnessPal blog post.
Tips for Fasting with MyFitnessPal
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of zero-calorie fluids like water, black coffee, and herbal tea during your fast.
- Prioritize Nutrients: Focus on nutrient-dense foods during your eating window.
- Consider a Flexible Approach: Adjust windows to fit your lifestyle.
- Consult a Professional: Seek advice from a healthcare professional before starting IF if you have medical conditions.
