How to make meal planning simpler

JACKSON, Tenn. — We’ve all had those weeks—too busy to plan, too tired to cook and takeout ends up being the easiest option.

But research shows that regularly cooking at home is not only linked to better nutrition but also even lower body fat. So how can we make meal planning feel more manageable—something that fits into real life, instead of adding to the daily stress?

Meal planning can be a really good way to support a balanced diet, yet many people find it intimidating. Even with the best intentions, it’s common to fall into repetitive food routines or rely on takeout when time or energy runs low.

“Busy schedules, the cost of groceries, trying to find recipes in the house that everyone is going to love as much as you do. All can make it feel like a chore and less like a path switch to even our health goals,” said Melissa Jaeger, head of nutrition at MyFitnessPal.

MyFitnessPal’s new meal planner tool simplifies the entire process by providing a week’s worth of recipes tailored to your goals, dietary needs, and household size—taking the guesswork out of what to eat and helping you feel more confident in the kitchen.

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