How to use MyFitnessPal's new audio recording feature

As a registered dietitian who uses MyFitnessPal frequently — for my own tracking and with my clients — I've seen how time constraints can make consistent recording a challenge. But MyFitnessPal's new audio recording feature streamlines the process, making it faster and easier for busy users.

For example, I've been using this feature to track my typical breakfast: two scrambled eggs, a slice of whole wheat bread, chicken sausage, and avocado, with a cup of coffee.

It only takes about 15 seconds to speak this into the app and review it– A time frame that even the busiest people can manage!

Keep reading to learn more about MyFitnessPal's new audio recording feature and how to get started as quickly as possible.

What is the voice recording feature?

Audio recording is a new feature in the MyFitnessPal app. Not a premium member? No problem! Try Premium free for 30 days.

This feature makes it easy to record multiple foods, servings, and serving sizes. Instead of typing and searching for items manually, all you need is your voice (and a few clicks).

Watch the magic in action:

Step-by-step guide: How to record meals using the audio recording feature

If you are a free membersee if you qualify for a free 30-day premium membership to try out the new audio recording feature (plus access to… Barcode scanning, Clear mealand more!)

If you are already trying or are a premium memberYou are ready for this Start using the voice recording feature! Just follow these steps:

• Step 1: Open the MyFitnessPal app.
• Step 2: Tap the plus (+) button on the bottom navigation bar in the app.
• Step 3: Select the “Audio Record” option.
• Step 4: If this is your first time using this feature, you will need to allow MyFitnessPal to access your microphone, and grant permissions for MyFitnessPal to access the speech recognition function.
• Step 5: When you see the gray arrow, start describing the meal (or meals!) you want to record. The more details the better! Include brand names, descriptions of serving sizes, and the serving you want to record the items in (breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snacks). You will know that the application Listen When the arrow turns blue.
• Step 6: When you've finished describing your meal(s), click the blue arrow.
• Step 7: The best matching items will be automatically populated. From here, you can choose to delete an item, click Try Again, or click Record items and/or meals to your timeline.

Benefits of using audio recording for tracking

The audio recording feature provides several advantages to meal tracking in MyFitnessPal:

• Simplifies guesswork portion sizes: It's difficult to know how much food you've consumed in ounces, grams, or other units of measurement. Now, describe your portions using your hand. For example, “I had a meal of chicken for lunch that was the size of my fist.” Or “I had a handful of blueberries for a snack.” (Check out our handy guide to portion sizes below!)
• Saves you time: Voice recording replaces the need to type foods into a search, making tracking your meals and snacks faster and easier. You can also record multiple foods at once by describing your meal out loud. Better yet, you can record multiple meals at once! At the end of the day, open your app, tap Voice Log from the recording menu, and describe your breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Review and review if necessary, and log in!
• Allows you to log in on the go: Multitasking? No problem. This feature is perfect for making sure your food is recorded, even when you only have a few seconds to spare.
• May enhance consistency: Finding a way to record food that fits easily into your routine can help you stay consistent. When you maintain healthy habits, you have a better chance of achieving your goals.

Frequently asked questions about audio recording in MyFitnessPal