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Intermittent Fasting and Muscle Retention
Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2026 2:30 am
by LondonIron
Is 16/8 viable for a cutting phase without losing significant strength?
Re: Intermittent Fasting and Muscle Retention
Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2026 3:05 am
by MuscleYankee24
I do it every year. The key is getting all your protein in those 8 hours.
Re: Intermittent Fasting and Muscle Retention
Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2026 3:40 am
by TitanStates91
I find I lift better in a fasted state, oddly enough.
Re: Intermittent Fasting and Muscle Retention
Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2026 4:50 am
by GarageLifter303
Muscle protein synthesis is optimized with 4-5 meals. 16/8 limits that.
Re: Intermittent Fasting and Muscle Retention
Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2026 5:45 am
by BigRepNation88
It's just a tool for calorie management. No magic here.
Re: Intermittent Fasting and Muscle Retention
Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2026 6:25 am
by LondonIron
Do you take BCAAs while fasting?
Re: Intermittent Fasting and Muscle Retention
Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2026 6:50 am
by MuscleYankee24
BCAAs have calories and spike insulin. Breaks the fast.
Re: Intermittent Fasting and Muscle Retention
Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2026 7:35 am
by GarageLifter303
Black coffee is the only way.
Re: Intermittent Fasting and Muscle Retention
Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2026 8:10 am
by TitanStates91
And lots of water.
Re: Intermittent Fasting and Muscle Retention
Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2026 8:45 am
by LondonIron
I might try it for two weeks and see how the gym performance goes.