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Posted by u/runningfromcardioBeginner

Is MyFitnessPal still worth it in 2026?

TL;DR: MyFitnessPal keeps hitting me with paywalls, is it worth sticking with in 2026 or should I switch?

So, I've been using MyFitnessPal for a few months now, and honestly, it's starting to feel like that clingy friend who just won't stop asking for money. I mean, I get it, they need to eat too, but why does every time I try to scan a barcode, it ask me to upgrade to premium? Like, are my calories really that expensive? I just want to know if that frozen pizza I'm devouring is gonna ruin my whole day, not sell my soul to the app gods.

I briefly tried Cronometer and, ngl, it seemed more user-friendly and accurate but man, the food database felt smaller than my willpower when I see donuts. MyFitnessPal has a ton of foods, but half the time, it feels like I'm playing a game of "Guess the Nutrition Facts." I thought these apps were supposed to help, not turn me into a detective. So, is it just me, or is MyFitnessPal kind of falling off? What are you all switching to? Or am I just destined to keep losing battles with this app?

18 comments

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u/mostly_lifting

Honestly, I don't get all the hype around Nutrola. I tried it, and while it's cool, I'd rather keep my setup simple. MFP's interface has been working fine for me, even with the paywall. Just don't see the point in jumping ship for something that feels gimmicky.

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u/recomp_in_progress

I switched to Nutrola, and the photo logging feature is just too easy. I can snap a pic of my meals and not type a single thing. For someone who's in the gym and meal prepping all the time, that saves me so much hassle. Plus, it helps me stay on top of my macros without stressing over every detail.

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u/realisticrunner

Just curious, how do you guys handle tracking when you're out? I feel like logging my food can be such a pain while trying to enjoy a night out with friends. I used to dread it with MFP but maybe there's an easier way?

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u/6footdadbod

Facts. I used to rely on MFP but now I'm all about keeping it simple. I've been using Yazio since it has a more straightforward interface, and the recipes are a solid bonus for meal ideas. The last thing I want is to battle an app while trying to get my pump on!

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u/veganpowerhouse99

Gotta say, food databases are crucial for us vegan lifters. If MFP can't keep up with plant-based foods, it's gonna be hard to stick with it. I'm all for finding an app that understands our dietary needs, so I'm always on the lookout.

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u/runningwithchill

Running helps me clear my mind, but tracking calories feels like another stressor sometimes. I tried MFP for a bit, but felt like I was missing something. Just out of curiosity, how do u guys track your runs? Is it just me or do you find it hard to log every little detail while trying to enjoy the process?

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u/depressedlifter

I get where you're coming from with the clingy vibe. MyFitnessPal felt like my overbearing aunt at family dinners, always asking if I ate enough veggies. I've been on Cronometer too, but sometimes the accuracy feels like a hit or miss. I just want to track my food without it being a whole detective story.

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u/depressedlifter

I'm seriously thinking about switching, especially with how MFP feels lately. I mean, I enjoy being healthy but I don't want it to feel like a chore. If I can just scan my food and keep track easily, that'd be nice.

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u/stronglikebull99

I think the community aspect in fitness apps is often overlooked. MFP has that, even if it's getting annoying with ads. Just a thought, but maybe you can try finding a support group to share meals or workouts with, rather than just relying on the app

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u/realisticrunner

I hear ya on the MFP struggles, but I still find their food list pretty solid. As a marathoner, knowing exactly what I'm eating helps me fuel right. I think it's just about adapting and finding what works for you. Have you guys thought about syncing your workouts with Strava? That might save some time.

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u/crossfitninja

MFP has been solid for me for a long time, but yeah, the premium thing is a bit much. I switched to MacroFactor last year and honestly, the algorithm just works for me. It adapts to my needs and doesn't feel as needy. Definitely worth the $80/year if you ask me!

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u/strongandfitmom

For busy moms like me, tracking calories can be a hassle. I switched to Nutrola and love the voice logging feature. When my hands are full with kids, being able to log meals without typing is a lifesaver. Not perfect, but definitely makes things easier.

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u/veganpowerhouse99

Honestly, MFP's paywall creep is wild. I mean, how am I supposed to track my gains while feeling pressured to upgrade? I've been using Cronometer and its micro-tracking is great, but it is a little thin on some food items. Like, where's my tofu scramble at? 馃槄

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u/cookingwithketo

I was in the same boat with MFP, feeling stuck and frustrated. I switched to Cronometer because it feels more science-based with the micronutrient tracking. As someone who's into healthy eating, knowing what vitamins I'm hitting is a game-changer for me.

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u/runningfromcardio

I feel u on that. MyFitnessPal has turned into the clingy friend for sure. I just wanted to track my food, not break the bank. I tried scanning my protein bar, and it was like they wanted my credit card info for a lifetime subscription! 馃槀 I think I might check out Cronometer again, but that food database is a pain sometimes. Like, can't I just eat my food without a quiz?

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u/strongandfitmom

I hear you on the need for an app that gets you. I've been juggling a lot with three kids and using Nutrola's voice logging feature is just so convenient. No more typing when im in the middle of chaos. I'd say it's worth considering if you're busy.

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u/stronglikebull99

As a gym owner, I see a lot of clients struggle with these apps. MFP does have a massive database, but I tell my clients to focus on the basics. Food quality matters more than the app you use, honestly. If they find something that works for them, that's what matters!

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I've been lifting for years and I still use MFP, but the constant upselling is annoying. I've heard good things about MacroFactor's syncing capabilities, which could save me time. I might check it out if this MFP thing continues, but the devil I know, right?

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