Clients can use both MyFitnessPal (MFP) and the Smart Meal Planner together. However, there are some limitations to be aware of when using both tools together.
How to Set Up MyFitnessPal and Smart Meal Planner
Normally, when you set up a Smart Meal Plan for a client, their meal tracker is also set to use the in-app meal tracking. This allows clients to log meals directly from their meal plan with a single tap.
If a client is already tracking their meals with MyFitnessPal, you can still assign them a Smart Meal Plan under the Meal Plan section of their profile. This will provide them with meal guidance while allowing them to continue logging their nutrition in MyFitnessPal.
With this method, assigning a Smart Meal Plan does not impact the client’s ability to track meals using MyFitnessPal. They can continue using MFP as their primary tracker while still benefiting from meal plan suggestions.
What Are the Limitations?
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Meal Tracking: Clients can only log meals in MFP. They cannot use the "Ate Today" function within the Smart Meal Planner, as this is linked to in-app meal tracking. The Discover tab is also included within the in-app meal tracking option only, so clients will not be able to access this feature if using MFP to track.
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Manual Entry for Smart Meal Planner Meals: If clients want to track a meal from the Smart Meal Planner, they must manually enter each ingredient/meal into MFP. Meals do not auto-sync between the two systems.
- Meal Plan Adherence: Since MyFitnessPal tracks overall calorie and macro intake rather than meal plan adherence, compliance with the Smart Meal Planner will need to be monitored manually.
When Is This Setup Ideal for Clients?
- If a client prefers MFP for tracking their meals but still wants meal guidance from the Smart Meal Planner.
- If they already use MFP and don’t want to switch entirely to in-app tracking.
- If they prefer more flexibility in logging meals while still having structured meal suggestions.
For best results, however, encourage clients to choose one primary tracking method to ensure consistency. If they use both, make sure they understand the limitations and how to log meals effectively!
