By Elizabeth May, RDN, CSOWM, LDN
This is the time of year when many of us are focusing on our goals and getting back to meal planning, tracking and weight loss. We know that self-monitoring is the single most effective strategy for weight loss, so let’s talk about tracking!
Apps to Track
– LoseIt
– My Fitness Pal
– Calorie Counter
– SparkPeople
– See How You Eat
– Fitbit
– YouAte Food Diary
Journals to Track
- Today is the Day:A 90 Day Food + Fitness Journal
- Hello New Me
Other Ideas:
- Jot down food in Notes section on phone
- Take pictures of food and create an album on phone
- Post your food pics on Instagram
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How to Make Tracking a Habit:
- Pick an easy to use method
- Track immediately after a meal or snack
- Set an alarm on your phone to remember to track each day
- Choose favorites in your App to make tracking fast
- Add friends to your App to keep you accountable
- Set a goal with your Family Food dietitian to check your App at your next visit
How Does Tracking Help?
- Keeps you accountable
- Learn correct portion sizes
- Creates awareness of food habits (“aha moments”)
- Allows for a record of your improvements
