PDF
Word
Food Journal Template
What Is a Food Journal?
A Food Journal refers to a typed or handwritten spreadsheet prepared to keep track of eating habits and be mindful of the quality and quantity of food.
Alternate Names:
- Food Tracker;
- Food Diary;
- Food Log.
There are many reasons to keep a Daily Food Journal - you can make a positive change in your life by monitoring and improving your food choices, learn about food allergens you have and figure out what products make you feel bad, control the food portions whether your goal is to lose weight or reduce the food costs, and make sure your body gets all the nutrients and energy it needs to function properly.
The information you receive after only a few weeks of diligently compiling the list of foods you consume will allow you to modify your exercise schedule and know how many calories to burn to maintain weight or change your body shape - besides, you will see how regular breakfast and early dinner benefit your overall health.
You may find a Food Journal template through the link below.
How to Keep a Food Journal?
Here are some tips for you if you plan to work on your eating patterns tracking every meal in a Food Log:
- Draw a table - a spreadsheet does not require sophisticated software, you can update the diary on your phone or computer after every meal or in the evening . Alternatively, you can write everything down in a notebook if it is more convenient to carry it with you everywhere. The contents of the document are up to you but the rows usually point out the days of the week while the columns list the meals - from breakfast to dinner.
- Since it is advised to eat at the same time every day, you should specify the meal times in the Food Tracker . This way, you can adjust your schedule quicker even if at first you are skipping meals or eating late at night - regular eating time will minimize health risks like high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels. To get a more accurate idea of what you are eating, enter the portion sizes - you can prevent overstocking and save money as well as inform your doctor about the food and beverages you eat and drink throughout the day in order to determine the ingredients that cause temporary poor health and adjust the diet if necessary.
- If you need to be reminded to drink enough water or take vitamins, include separate columns for them - for instance, boxes you may check will indicate the glasses of water you drink, and you can prevent dehydration and maximize your physical performance. Experiment with supplements depending on the meals - in case your diet becomes more balanced, you can reduce the intake of vitamins since you are getting all you need in your food. Describe the restaurant orders and takeouts - they definitely make a difference in your budget and diet plan.
- Set a good example for your children and help them to eat healthily and explore fill out on their own - motivate them to diversify their diet without feeling forced. Whether the doctor recommends you to keep track of the calories the child is eating or you want to identify the gaps in their diet and ensure the kid gets enough vitamins and minerals required for healthy growth and physical development, a colorful Food Journal decorated with drawings and stickers is a great way to be certain their grades improve and they have enough energy to be active.
Haven't found the template you're looking for? Take a look at the related templates below:
