Cronometer Food Logging App!

Food logging involves recording the types, amounts and timing of food and beverages you consume throughout the day. This practice is extremely important when you are trying to use nutrition as a way to get healthy.

Food logging can be done with anything from pen and paper, to taking pictures in your phone to using Food Logging apps like Cronometer that we recommend.

The reality is we eat 3-5 times a day and what we eat OR don't eat has a massive impact on our health. Your food journal will help you to learn more about your habits and determine what tweaks need to be made to reach your nutrition and health goals.

Identifying Patterns and Triggers - Food logs can help identify patterns in your eating habits, such as emotional or stress-related eating. Recognizing these patterns can empower you to make positive changes and develop healthier habits.

Accountability - When you have a record of what you eat, you will be more motivated to make healthier choices and stick to your dietary goals.

Portion Control - Food logging encourages portion control as you become more mindful of serving sizes. This can be particularly helpful for weight management and preventing overeating.

Problem Solving - If you face dietary challenges or health issues, keeping a food log can help you and your coach identify potential triggers or areas for improvement. 

Calories & Macronutrients - Food logging allows you to track not only calories but the intake of specific nutrients like protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. This is beneficial for individuals with specific goals or health concerns. 

To get the most accurate data, yes logging everything you eat must be done. That means measuring the amount of food you are eating.

However, if you are working with a Nova nutrition coach, measuring may not be necessary. You can use the Cronometer app to do a text log or image log using the camera on your phone.

How long you food log depends on your goal. If you are looking for a general snap shot of your dieatry habits, logging for at least 5 days is recommended.

If you are however actively problem solving and progressing your food to acheive specific health and fitness outcomes it is recommended to track longer.

Many people practice food logging like counting steps on a step tracker. It holds them accountable and doing it long term brings the results they desire.

That said, most people take breaks from food logging at some time in their health journey. Often, hese people come back to it as some point again to stay accountable.

Measuring the quantity of food and beverage you consume guarentees the best data if you are trying to to bserve the amount of calories, protein, carbs or fat you eat.

Food logging however can be done in other ways that do not require measuring. It all depends on your goals.

For example, if you have a coach helping you then perhaps measuring may not be needed. Food logging can also be done by just writing down what you eat and or taking pictures. The Cronometer app used by Nova Health Club allows photo uploads and simple text entries.

Do your best to estimate. Use “generic” or restaurant entries in the app, or find similar meals. Over time, you’ll get better at estimating. When in doubt, err on the side of caution (overestimate calories).

Alternatively, you can simply use photos or text to capture your meal. It won't be accurate in terms of calories or macronutrient amounts however if it is being shared with a coach it will suffice for feedback.