Consider these tips when tracking your food using an app.
Track Your Foods the Day Before…
This should make things a lot easier since you’ll know ahead of time that you’ll hit your numbers even before the day starts. This also allows you to eliminate any worry from trying to hit your targets as you go through your day.
…Or Track As You Go
You basically just don’t want to wait until the end of the day to track your foods. It’s a waste of your brain power trying to remember what foods you ate for the day. Trust me on this.
Don’t Try and Hit Your Numbers Perfectly
The goal isn’t to hit your numbers exactly as you see them on your app, but to get to them as close as possible. Remember, they’re called guidelines for a reason. Stay within 10% of your calories (i.e. if your caloric target is 2,200 calories, then you’re “allowed” to go over or under by 220 calories), and +/- 10g or so for your macros .
Track Calories & Protein Only
These are the two most important aspects of your nutrition. As mentioned before, carbs and fat will vary based on a variety of factors.
Track 3-4 Days of the Week, Not Every Day
We’re looking to develop the habit of being more mindful about what and how much you’re eating. The goal is to see a baseline, and then make any necessary adjustments along the way.
No Need to Track Fibrous Veggies
This is what we call “free foods” that contain very minimal calories. A cup of broccoli for instance contains about 30 calories. Unless you’re having a ton of veggies throughout your day, there’s really no need to track them.