Best Nutrition Tracking Apps For Nutrition Coaches (MyFitnessPal Alternatives)

Recently, MyFitnessPal, the biggest and most popular food tracking app, put one of its most-used features, the barcode scanner, behind a paywall... and people were not happy.

This move shook up the food tracking space, especially among nutrition coaches and clients who relied on the free version. As someone who has coached over 2,000 clients, I always recommended MyFitnessPal, but never the premium version. Now, even I’m reconsidering.

If you’re a nutrition coach helping clients track calories and macronutrients to lose weight or gain muscle, these changes matter. That’s why I’ve put together a guide to the best MyFitnessPal alternatives, breaking down their strengths, weaknesses, and costs.

1. Cronometer

Cronometer quickly became the most popular alternative after polling my audience. It’s especially useful for tracking micronutrients and creating custom macronutrient targets, which MFP used to offer through a browser hack.

Strengths:

• Complete nutrient breakdown, including micronutrients
• Custom macronutrient targets (no hacks needed)
• Syncs data with health devices
• Great for specific diets and nutrition research

Weaknesses:

• Recipes can only be added on the browser version
• No community aspect
• Defaults to net carbs instead of total carbs

Cost:

• Free version available
• Premium: $19.99/month or $79.99/year

2. MyMacros+

MyMacros+ is designed by a professional bodybuilder and focuses on flexibility and customization, making it popular among athletes.

Strengths:

• Unlimited meals with individual breakdowns
• Specific targets for varying days
• Works offline (no internet needed)
• Less discrepancy between macros and calories

Weaknesses:

• No online backup or social community

Cost:

• Free version
• Pro: $1.99/month or $19.99/year

 Want to Learn More?

Watch the full review of my BEST MyFitnessPal alternatives here.

3. MacroFactor

MacroFactor is part of a new wave of “smart” nutrition apps that make dynamic adjustments based on your actual intake and progress, rather than just planned goals.

Strengths:

• Barcode scanner
• Verified database by Registered Dietitians
• Dynamic weekly adjustments, similar to being coached
• Timeline-style food log for a structured approach

Weaknesses:

• No free version
• Best for users with nutrition-tracking experience

Cost:

• Premium: $11.99/month or $71.99/year

4. Carbon Diet Coach

Carbon Diet Coach, developed by Dr. Layne Norton, focuses on tracking body composition changes, making it popular among fitness enthusiasts.

Strengths:

• Barcode scanner
• Results-focused, with clear tracking
• Ideal for users who value structure and accountability

Weaknesses:

• Less grace about non-compliance (no adjustments without adherence)
• No free version

Cost:

• Premium: $9.99/month or $79.99/year

5. Lose It!

Lose It! is a simple, user-friendly tracking app with a large food database and some fun community challenges.

Strengths:

• Barcode scanner
• Food photo tracking
• Community challenges
• Verified database entries

Weaknesses:

• Difficult to track homemade meals
• No micronutrient tracking

Cost:

• Free version
• Premium: $39.99/year

6. FatSecret

FatSecret is a completely free app with basic tracking features, but the name alone puts some people off.

Strengths:

• Barcode scanner
• Meal breakdowns
• User-verified food entries
• All features are included for free

Weaknesses:

• Limited features compared to other apps

For coaches, Cronometer is the best choice due to its detailed nutrient tracking and customization options. For athletes or users who don’t mind paying, MacroFactor is the best. Let me know your thoughts!