The math
The math behind MealMath
Most meal planners rely on templates and generic advice. MealMath computes the mathematically optimal answer for your specific situation.
Real grocery data
We maintain a database of thousands of products from major grocery stores — real prices, real nutrition labels, updated regularly. No generic food databases with estimated values.
Mathematical optimization
Given your macro targets and your food list, MealMath computes the single cheapest combination that satisfies every constraint simultaneously. This isn't a heuristic or a "pretty good" guess — it's the provably optimal answer.
Hard constraints, not suggestions
When you set 150g protein as a target, MealMath guarantees the plan hits 150g. Not 148g. Not "close." Every constraint is satisfied exactly, or the system tells you it's impossible and explains why.
Adaptive replanning
Log a meal that wasn't in the plan? MealMath instantly recomputes the rest of your day to compensate. Had a high-calorie lunch? Dinner adjusts automatically to keep you on target.
Learns your metabolism
Track your weight over time and MealMath estimates your actual energy expenditure — not from a formula, but from your real data. Your calorie targets adapt as your body changes.
Runs on your device
The optimizer runs locally on your phone in under a second. No waiting for a server. No internet required for replanning. Your data stays on your device.
Comparison
MealMath vs. typical nutrition apps
| Feature | Typical app | MealMath |
|---|---|---|
| Meal planning approach | Manual or template-based | Computed from your constraints |
| Cost optimization | None | Provably cheapest plan |
| Macro accuracy | "Try to hit your targets" | Guaranteed exact satisfaction |
| When you go off-plan | You figure it out | Auto-rebalances your day |
| Food database | Generic USDA estimates | Real store prices + labels |
| Calorie targets | Static formula | Adapts to your actual data |