MyFitnessPal: Calorie Counter
How accurate is the barcode scanner in MyFitnessPal?
The barcode scanner is very fast and accurate for most packaged foods, like frozen veggies from Aldi, pulling up exact nutrition facts in about two seconds. However, some user-submitted entries in the database may have incorrect calorie counts, so it's wise to double-check entries for homemade or uncommon items.
Can I set custom calorie goals in the free version of MyFitnessPal?
Yes, the free version lets you set custom goals, such as losing a pound per week, and the app automatically adjusts your daily calorie target. However, detailed breakdowns of vitamins and minerals are locked behind the Premium subscription.
Why does MyFitnessPal feel sluggish when searching for foods, and how can I fix it?
The app may have a two-second delay when searching for foods, which is likely due to the large database or background processes. To improve performance, try closing other apps, restarting your phone, or clearing the app's cache in settings.
How do I stop the app from resetting my recent food list in MyFitnessPal?
The recent food list resetting is a known bug in the free version, often caused by the app refreshing or syncing. To work around it, save frequently used meals as 'Meals' or 'Recipes' in the app, so you can log them quickly without relying on the recent list.
How does MyFitnessPal compare to other free calorie tracking apps like Lose It?
MyFitnessPal has a larger food database (over 11 million items) and a faster barcode scanner than many free alternatives, but its free version shows more ads and hides detailed nutrient reports behind a paywall. Lose It offers a simpler interface with fewer ads but a smaller database, so choose based on whether you prioritize database size or a cleaner free experience.
