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Posted by u/nurseliftsheavy··Bulking

Struggling to regain weight post-cancer, any tips for bulking?

TL;DR: Looking for bulking tips to regain weight after cancer treatment.

So I'm a cancer survivor and I'm trying to bulk up after some serious weight loss. I've been lifting for 5 years and know my way around macros, but it feels like my body just doesn't want to cooperate. What's worked for you guys in terms of food quality and timing to pack on those pounds? Looking for any advice or personal experiences that might help! Thanks.

16 comments

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u/lactoseintolerantlifters·

If you're struggling with calorie intake, smoothies can be your best friend! Blend fruits with oats and a protein source. Just make sure to add some nut butter for extra calories.

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u/zombielifter·

Honestly, it's tough to regain weight post-treatment. I'd recommend focusing on whole foods instead of processed stuff. Also, try eating small meals more frequently; it can help get the calories in.

2
u/bodyweightbeast·

i've found that including more bodyweight exercises helped build muscle without the crazy weights. It's a nice change of pace too! Plus, I can do it anytime, anywhere.

15
u/zone2nerd·

Have you looked into your training volume? Increasing your lift volume slightly can help stimulate more appetite. Sometimes just changing your routine gives a new kick to your progress.

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u/5kqueen_2022·

Running helps with my appetite too! I usually hit the pavement after lifting, and it makes me hungrier. Maybe add in some cardio if you're not already doing it!

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u/6footdadbod·

I feel like every dad I know is always trying to gain weight. Just focus on having a good meal prep day! Throw on some Netflix and enjoy the cooking. Makes it easier.

5
u/dadbod_passion·

Bro, I get that gaining weight can be a pain. When my kids were born, I dropped weight fast. I just made it a game to see how many calories I could eat in a day. Silly, but it worked!

5
u/deadlift_dan·

If you're serious about bulking, don't underestimate creatine. It's cheap and effective, plus it'll help with muscle recovery and growth. Trust me, it's worth it.

4
u/strongerthanlastyear·

After my own health struggles, I had to change my approach. Focus on nutrient-dense foods like avocados, nuts, and lean meats. It might feel slow, but trust me, it adds up.

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u/cuttingseason_2024·

im currently cutting, but I can say that tracking my food with MacroFactor helped me find my sweet spot for calories. Have you tried using an app? It might help u stay consistent.

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u/badformbutgoodvibes·

Trying to bulk is a wild ride! I remember feeling like I was eating all day and still not gaining. What about meal prepping? Just dump some rice and chicken into containers.

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u/gymratbutchill·

Bro, bulking is like leveling up in an RPG. You gotta hit your macros but also make sure your meals are hella tasty! Don't forget to snack between meals too.

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u/nurseliftsheavy·

Nutrient timing can make a difference! Try having a high-carb meal after lifting to kickstart recovery and growth. It helped me a lot when I was rebuilding my strength.

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u/liftingtogether·

Consider finding a gym buddy if you don't have one. Working out together can motivate you to push harder and can make meal planning more fun! Plus, you get to share ideas.

4
u/veganpowerlifting·

As a vegan, I bulked using plant-based proteins like lentils and chickpeas. They can be calorie-dense when prepared right! It's all about finding what works for you. Keep experimenting!

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u/gymratbutchill·

If you think calorie-dense foods are the way to go, remember that whole foods are the real MVP. This ain't a 'more is better' situation. Quality matters too!

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