The Top Nutrition Tracking Apps, According to Registered Dietitians

Nutrition tracking apps have grown in popularity, offering personalized insights, easy logging, and accountability.

But with so many options out there, which ones do registered dietitians (RDs) actually recommend? Here’s a roundup of the top nutrition tracking apps, based on expert opinions from dietitians who know what it takes to build and maintain a balanced, healthy diet.

1. MyFitnessPal

Why Dietitians Love It: MyFitnessPal is one of the most popular and widely recommended apps, and for good reason. It has a massive food database with over 11 million items, making it easy to log meals from restaurants, packaged foods, or homemade dishes. Registered dietitians appreciate its simplicity and comprehensive tracking features, which allow users to monitor their calories, macros (protein, carbs, fats), and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals).

Features:

• Barcode scanner for quick food entry.

• Customizable goals for weight loss, maintenance, or muscle gain.

• Integration with fitness trackers and wearable devices.

• In-depth nutrient tracking for users who want to see their vitamin and mineral intake.

What RDs Say: “MyFitnessPal is great for people looking for a comprehensive view of their nutrition. It not only tracks calories but also provides details on the quality of nutrients you’re getting. It’s a great tool for clients who want to monitor their protein, fiber, and micronutrient intake,” says Keri Gans, RDN, author of The Small Change Diet.

2. Cronometer

Why Dietitians Love It: Cronometer stands out for its accuracy and focus on nutrient density, making it a favorite among health-conscious individuals and dietitians alike. It tracks over 60 micronutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, providing users with a deep dive into their daily nutrient intake. The app’s precision makes it ideal for those with specific dietary needs, like athletes, vegans, or individuals managing chronic conditions.

Features:

• Detailed tracking of vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients.

• Customizable settings for various diet types (paleo, keto, plant-based).

• Offers a premium version with even more in-depth nutrient tracking.

• Syncs with various fitness devices and apps.

What RDs Say: “Cronometer is perfect for clients who want to ensure they’re meeting their nutritional needs, especially if they follow a restrictive diet or have specific health goals. The nutrient breakdown is unmatched and highly accurate, which is why I recommend it to clients who need a detailed picture of their diet,” explains Melissa Rifkin, MS, RD.

3. Lose It!

Why Dietitians Love It: Lose It! is designed with simplicity and user-friendliness in mind, making it one of the top choices for individuals focused on weight loss. This app allows users to set personalized goals and track their calorie intake with a straightforward interface. Its barcode scanner and extensive food database make it quick and easy to log meals, and it also provides insights into macronutrients to help balance your diet.

Features:

• Personalized weight loss goals and progress tracking.

• Easy-to-use food logging with a barcode scanner.

• Database of popular foods, including restaurant and grocery items.

• Offers community support and challenges to stay motivated.

What RDs Say: “Lose It! is a great app for clients who are just starting out on their health journey. It’s user-friendly, which makes it easier to stick with long-term. The app also allows for setting realistic weight loss goals, and the macronutrient breakdown helps users focus on the quality of their calories, not just the quantity,” says Amy Gorin, MS, RDN.

4. Noom

Why Dietitians Love It: Noom goes beyond simple calorie counting by incorporating behavioral psychology to help users build healthier habits. It focuses on a holistic approach to weight loss, offering daily lessons, personalized coaching, and food tracking. This app is great for those who not only want to log their nutrition but also want guidance on building sustainable lifestyle changes.

Features:

• Food tracking combined with psychological coaching.

• Daily lessons and articles focused on behavior change.

• Personalized calorie goals based on weight loss plans.

• Access to a virtual coach and peer support groups.

What RDs Say: “Noom is a unique app because it combines nutrition tracking with psychological insights, which helps users understand the ‘why’ behind their eating patterns. It’s particularly helpful for individuals who struggle with emotional eating or who need extra support in making lasting changes,” says Kristina LaRue, RD, CSSD.

5. Yazio

Why Dietitians Love It: Yazio is a sleek, user-friendly app that focuses on both nutrition and fitness tracking. It offers personalized plans for weight loss, muscle gain, or maintenance, making it a versatile option. One of its standout features is meal planning, which provides recipe suggestions based on your nutritional goals. The app also tracks macronutrients, micronutrients, and activity levels.

Features:

• Personalized meal plans and recipe suggestions.

• Tracks macros, micros, and exercise.

• Offers fasting timers for those interested in intermittent fasting.

• Progress tracking for weight, body fat, and measurements.

What RDs Say: “I recommend Yazio to clients who want an easy-to-use app with meal planning capabilities. It’s great for people who like having structure but also want to keep an eye on their nutrients. The fasting timer is also a useful tool for those following intermittent fasting,” says Molly Knudsen, MS, RDN.

6. Fooducate

Why Dietitians Love It: Fooducate stands out for its emphasis on the quality of the food you’re eating, rather than just calorie counts. The app scans barcodes and assigns a letter grade (A, B, C, etc.) to foods based on their nutritional value. This is a favorite among dietitians who want their clients to focus on eating whole, nutrient-dense foods rather than just limiting calories.

Features:

• Barcode scanner with food grading based on nutrition quality.

• Tracks macros and offers insights into food additives, sugar, and more.

• Offers personalized nutrition tips and recipes.

• In-app community support for extra motivation.

What RDs Say: “Fooducate is excellent for educating users on food quality. I love how it grades food based on nutritional value, encouraging healthier choices beyond just calorie counting. It’s a great app for people who want to improve their overall diet and make more informed food choices,” says Julie Upton, MS, RD.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right App for You

Nutrition tracking apps are incredibly helpful tools in the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle, but not all apps are created equal. Whether you’re focused on weight loss, nutrient density, or overall health, there’s an app that fits your needs.

Registered dietitians agree that the best apps go beyond counting calories; they help users build sustainable habits, track nutrient intake, and focus on overall well-being. Explore these options, find the one that aligns with your goals, and start tracking for a healthier you!