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Posted by u/veganpowerlifter路路Cutting

Struggling with hunger while cutting? Try these plant-based tips!

TL;DR: Struggling with hunger on a cut? Try high-volume foods, plant-based proteins, and mindful eating!

Cutting can feel tough, especially when hunger hits hard. As a plant-based athlete, I've found a few strategies that help me manage cravings while staying in a deficit.

1. Prioritize high-volume, low-calorie foods: Load up on veggies like leafy greens, cucumbers, and zucchini. They add bulk to meals without a ton of calories.

2. Incorporate protein: Plant-based proteins like lentils, chickpeas, and tempeh are filling and nutrient-dense. Aiming for around 1.2-1.6g of protein per kg of body weight can rly help keep you satisfied.

3. Use spices and herbs: Flavor can make a huge difference. Experiment with different spices to make meals exciting and satisfying without adding calories.

4. Stay hydrated: Sometimes thirst can mask itself as hunger. Keeping up with water intake is crucial!

5. Mindful eating: Slow down and enjoy your food. It helps you recognize when you're full and can reduce the urge to snack mindlessly.

Being plant-based doesn't mean you have to starve! What other tips do you all have for managing hunger during a cut?

6 comments

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u/gymratbutchill路

Based on my experience, if you're feeling hungry, it might be worth checking your overall caloric intake. Sometimes we think we're in a deficit when we're really not. And remember, it's okay to adjust your macros if you're feeling too starved. Just don't go overboard!

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u/veganpowerlifter路

These tips are really solid! I've been cutting for a while and loading up on veggies has helped me feel fuller without blowing my calorie count. I also love making veggie stir-fries with tofu, they really pack a punch on flavor and protein.

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u/rpe_enthusiast路

Prioritizing high-volume foods is crucial. Think about it, if you eat foods with a high water and fiber content, like cucumbers or lettuce, they provide satiety while keeping your caloric intake low. This aligns with the principles of energy density, which can be really effective when cutting.

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u/happygains路

Yep, keeping it fun with spices is a game changer! I've been making this spicy chickpea salad that totally kills cravings. It's all about finding flavors you love that won't derail your cut.

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u/depressedlifter路

You ever get so hungry you could eat your gym bag? 馃槀 I used to think protein shakes were just for post-workout, but I've started using them as meal replacements too. Sometimes, a shake with spinach and nut butter does the trick when I'm starving.

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u/gymbagorganizer路

I totally disagree about the hydration point. I used to drink tons of water thinking it would curb hunger, but it didn't really help me. I found focusing on my protein intake and planning meals worked better for me, like meal prepping chickpea curry.

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