Start Simple with MyPlate (iOS Version 1.6)

Start Simple with MyPlate (iOS Version 1.6) -Synopsis of the App: Start Simple with MyPlate offers food tips, meal ideas and a personalized plan to meet goals for eating fruits, vegetables, grains, protein and dairy foods.

Price and Platform: Free. Apple and Android.

RDN Score: 5/5

Pro

  • Simple design that’s easy to use with excellent directions on getting started.
  • From the “Goals” dashboard, set simple food goals in five different groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods and dairy.
  • Goals are simple and approachable such as “Snack on fruit.”
  • Check off daily goals and earn badges for healthy choices.
  • Not sure about your goals? Start Simple will pick them for you.
  • Each screen includes your goals for each food group and tips to help achieve them. Tip example for having fruit for a sweet treat: “Bake or sauté apples with cinnamon.”
  • Easily tick off each time you complete a goal and enjoy a confetti celebration.
  • Easily edit and set goals (up to three at a time).
  • Includes challenges to keep users motivated and engaged beyond badge collection.
  • Includes upcoming seasonal challenges to unlock over time.
  • Monitor progress on the badges screen; earn badges in each food group and for challenges, plus two- or five-day streaks.
  • Includes links to more information in MyPlate 101.

Cons

  • Without an open challenge, users could “finish” the app and may be less inclined to stay engaged.

Bottom Line: With no food journals or calorie counting, Start Simple with MyPlate provides support for healthy eating via five food groups. It’s is ideal for anyone wanting to truly start simple.

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Marisa Moore
Marisa Moore, MBA, RDN, LD, is based in Atlanta and specializes in culinary nutrition, communications and consulting. She blogs at marisamoore.com. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter.