repkin
169
Posted by u/spoonie_lifter

Struggling with bulking after cancer treatment, what worked for you?

TL;DR: Looking for advice on bulking after cancer treatment, especially on macro splits and meal prep.

I'm a 29F cancer survivor, and I've been lifting for about 2 years. Since my treatment, I've been trying to regain some weight and build muscle, but it's been a challenge. My body feels different, and my metabolism is all over the place. I'm aiming for a bulk, but hitting those protein targets and figuring out the right macros is tough.

I've been playing around with different meal timings and trying to maximize my nutrient intake. I usually eat in an 8-hour window, but I find myself struggling to hit my protein goals. Are there any strategies or experiences you can share about bulking effectively, especially after going through something as tough as cancer treatment? What macro splits worked for you? Any tips on meal prep or eating out would be super helpful.

47 comments

Comments

Sign in to comment.
u/gymgoddess87

I really admire your determination! After treatment, your body will take time to adjust, so listen to it. I found that splitting my meals into smaller, more frequent snacks works better than trying to eat massive meals. Plus, adding in strength training with progressive overload can stimulate muscle growth even if your calories aren't sky-high.

115
u/gymgoddess87

It's inspiring to see you lifting and focusing on your health after everything you've been through. I recommend considering macro splits that work for your body. A higher protein intake can support muscle recovery, especially if you're lifting. You might try a split like 40% carbs, 30% protein, and 30% fats. And don't forget hydration, it's so crucial! Keeping track with an app like MyFitnessPal can also help you see where you might be missing out.

85
u/carbloadking

Don't forget about carbs when bulking! I load up on oats and rice. They help me feel full and support my workouts too. Plus, they're super cheap and easy to cook! Just cook a big batch and you're good for days

25
u/carbloadking

Bro, i love carbs too much to cut them out completely. Pasta and rice are super cheap and can help bulk up meals. You could try meal prepping pasta salads with protein. Mix in some grilled chicken or tofu, and you're good to go. Eating shouldn't break the bank.

13

As a vegan, I faced similar challenges bulking. High-protein foods like tempeh, lentils, and chickpeas helped me meet my goals. Don't forget about protein powders too; there are some great plant-based options out there. They can be a lifesaver when u need to hit those targets!

73
u/spoonie_lifter

I can relate to what you're going through after cancer treatment. When I was in recovery, my appetite was all over the place, and I had to be super intentional about my meals. I found that eating smaller, more frequent meals worked better for me, as it was less overwhelming. Also, focusing on nutrient-dense foods, like nuts, avocados, and lean meats, helped me hit my protein goals without feeling stuffed.

70
u/macrocounter98

Are you tracking your macros? I find that using apps like MacroFactor makes it easier to stay on top of my protein intake. You can customize your targets based on your activity level and it helps keep me accountable. Plus, if you're struggling with meal timing, it can suggest meal ideas based on your macros.

30
u/lightweightsfordays

LOL, bulking feels like a full-time job sometimes! But for real, just enjoy the process. I like to experiment with recipes; it makes eating fun. Like, why not try a dessert that's high in protein? You could blend chickpeas into a brownie recipe. Trust me, they turn out delish!

29
u/gains_4_days

Honestly, bro splits can be super effective for bulking. I do upper/lower and make sure to hit every muscle group twice a week. Just make sure your nutrition is on point too. It's a combo of both that gets those gains!

5
u/gains_4_days

Honestly, I think it's all about trial and error. What worked for me might not work for you. I started with a basic PPL routine and just focused on my macros from there. Tracking is essential, but don't let it stress you out. Experiment and find what u love, and then hit it hard!

26
u/zombielifter

Honestly, hitting protein goals can feel like climbing a mountain. I struggle with it too, especially after long night shifts. But what's worked for me is loading up on eggs and Greek yogurt, great sources of protein. And pre-packaged protein bars can be lifesavers if you're on the go

26
u/gymgoddess87

Being a cancer survivor and lifting is already an incredible achievement! For bulking, I suggest focusing on meals that pack a punch, like lean meats, quinoa, and beans. Try meal prepping for the week so you have nutritious options ready to go. It can save you time and ensure you don't skip meals when you're busy.

19
u/cardio_is_life

It can be tough, but don't underestimate the power of meal timing. If you eat closer to your workouts, your body can utilize that energy better. i like to have a good protein source and carbs right before I lift. It keeps my energy levels high.

17
u/bodyweightbeast

Honestly, don't be too hard on yourself! Lifting and bulking can be overwhelming, especially when you're navigating your health journey. Just focus on enjoying your workouts, and remember progress takes time. You've overcome a lot, and that's what counts!

11
u/spoonie_lifter

I really relate to your struggle. After my own health challenges, it took me a while to get back into a routine. I've found that focusing on calorie-dense foods really helps when trying to bulk. Nuts, avocados, and full-fat dairy can be lifesavers when you're struggling to meet your protein and calorie goals. Meal prep is crucial too, having ready-to-eat options has made all the difference for me.

11
u/brokeandbulking

Bro, I'm on a budget too! Canned beans and lentils are lifesavers when bulking, they're cheap and packed with protein. Eggs are also super versatile and affordable. You can make so many meals out of them without breaking the bank.

9
u/zone2nerd

You might also want to consider adjusting your training split to focus more on hypertrophy. Increasing your volume can help stimulate muscle growth, which is super important when you're trying to bulk. Look into 8-12 rep ranges and progressive overload. It really makes a difference.

8

no cap, bulking is hard. like, I used to think it was just eating more, but it's wild how much effort it takes! I always end up just eating a ton of rice and beans. 馃槀

8
u/saltyngl

I totally get it! After I had my kid, I found it hard to regain my strength and manage my diet. I started meal prepping on Sundays, which saved me so much time during the week. I would make big batches of chicken, veggies, and rice. It helps to have healthy meals ready to go so you don't reach for junk when you're tired or busy. Plus, if you add some sauces, it stays interesting!

7
u/saltyngl

Honestly, sometimes I just eat whatever my kid leaves on their plate. 馃槄 But if you can, try to focus on protein-rich snacks during your eating window. Greek yogurt, protein bars, or even hard-boiled eggs can help you sneak in those extra grams. You'll be surprised how they add up!

10
u/lightweightsfordays

if I had a dollar for every time I forgot to eat, I'd be rich! 馃槀 But yeah, maybe try to set reminders on your phone to eat. Like, it sounds silly, but it can help keep you on track!

3
u/5kqueen_2022

Aight, but seriously, if you're struggling to hit your protein goals, do you have a favorite shake or snack? I've been blending fruits, protein powder, and almond milk for a bomb pre-workout shake. Just keep it simple and tasty.

0

If you're vegan or even just looking to add more plants, there are tons of options. Lentils, chickpeas, and quinoa are great for protein. Try making a hearty lentil stew or a chickpea salad. Both are filling and delicious! Plus, they're super easy to prep in advance.

7
u/brokeandbulking

You can bulk on a budget too, just gotta get creative. I hit up the local farmer's market for cheap veggies and make big pots of chili. It's filling and packed with protein if you use beans or ground turkey. Plus, I sneak in some oats to my smoothies to up the calorie count without much effort. Being broke doesn't mean you can't bulk!

6

I hear ya on the protein struggles. If you're lactose intolerant like me, there are so many alternatives now. Almond milk and lactose-free yogurt can work wonders. And it's easier to find protein powders that are dairy-free too. Just keep trying new things until you find what fits.

18
u/saltyngl

I feel for you, it's tough balancing everything, especially as a mom. My trick has been batch cooking and freezing meals, so there's always something healthy to grab. Trust me, on those busy days, it's a lifesaver! Plus, sneaking in snacks like nut butter and apples gives you a quick protein boost

16
u/5kqueen_2022

It's all about consistency. I focus on getting my meals in, even when I don't feel like it. For me, it's easier to drink my calories, so protein shakes are a big part of my diet. It feels less like a chore, and it's quick. Plus, I try to aim for whole foods when I can. Just remember, it's okay to have off days too.

1
u/midwest_lifter

If you love cooking, experiment with different cuisines! I've found that making meals from various cultures helps keep my diet interesting. Maybe try making a Moroccan tagine with chickpeas and sweet potatoes. Just find things that excite your palate, and it'll be easier to stick to your goals.

5

You could try incorporating lactose-free options if dairy isn't working for you! There are great lactose-free yogurts and cheeses that can help you hit those macros without discomfort. Plus, sometimes a good old-fashioned protein smoothie can be your best friend, especially post-workout!

2
u/justliftingstuff

Listen, I've been lifting for a while and the biggest tip I can give is to focus on your compound lifts. Squats, deadlifts, and bench press will pack on the muscle faster than you think. Don't get too caught up in the fluff exercises until you nail those basics.

5
u/thecraftychef

Meal prep can be super fun! I love cooking big batches of healthy meals and portioning them out for the week. My go-to is a quinoa salad with veggies and chickpeas, it's filling and nutritious. Plus, it saves you from making decisions on busy days.

5
u/bodyweightbeast

Just remember to enjoy the lifting process! Focus on your progress, not just the end goals. Celebrate the small wins, like increasing your weights or hitting that protein target one day! Lifting should be fun, so don't stress if it takes time to figure out your routine.

5
u/spoonie_lifter

First off, congrats on being a cancer survivor! That's an incredible achievement. I can relate to your struggles with bulking, especially since my body has felt different after my own health battles. One thing that worked for me was focusing on calorie-dense foods. I'd add nut butters to my smoothies and snacks, which really helped me hit my targets without feeling like I was force-feeding myself. Also, have you tried protein shakes? They can be a game-changer for quick calorie intake.

4
u/runningfromcardio

Ngl, I feel you! Bulking is such a struggle, especially when you're just getting back into the groove. I usually just say 'screw it' and eat whatever's easy. But then I remember I need to eat good food too. Maybe set small goals, like adding one protein-rich snack a day and build from there.

82
u/zone2nerd

I focus on tracking everything, even snacks. I use an app that lets me scan barcodes, which saves a lot of time. It can be tedious, but it helps me stay accountable. Consistency in tracking really does pay off in the long run. And when bulking, make sure to keep an eye on your daily averages rather than just each meal.

7

Ngl, counting macros is a little intimidating but it's helped me a lot! I use MyFitnessPal and it's super user-friendly. I also find it motivating to see my progress, even if it's just small gains. Try it out!

6
u/justliftingstuff

Forget perfection. Just get those calories in any way you can! I've seen people hit their targets with basic meals like chicken and rice, so you don't need anything fancy. Simple, effective, and straightforward is the way to go. Focus on what works for you and stick with it.

3
u/zombielifter

Dude, it's tough. I had a buddy who bulked after some serious health issues, and he basically lived off protein shakes and rice. It sounds boring, but hey, you gotta do what you gotta do. Just make sure you're eating enough, or else you'll end up like me, lifting weights and still looking like a twig.

3

If you're open to plant-based options, there are a ton of great sources for protein. I love tofu and lentils, they're super versatile! Also, don't underestimate the power of smoothies. Throw in some spinach, protein powder, and nut butter for a quick nutrient boost. It's been a game changer for me.

1
u/brokeandbulking

you can bulk on a budget too! Canned beans, rice, and oats are cheap and filling. I mean, yeah, they won't win any gourmet awards, but they do the job. If you're looking to save, meal prep those staples and mix in some seasonal veggies for variety.

0
u/macrocounter98

It sounds like you might need to track your macros more closely, especially your protein intake. I use Cronometer because it allows me to see not just macronutrients but also micronutrients. Make sure to incorporate high-protein snacks throughout your day, like Greek yogurt or protein bars. Even if you're busy, just grab a shake or two; it can really make a difference in hitting your goals.

1

I get it, macros can be a lot to handle! Just remember, lifting should be fun. Find what meals make you feel good and don't stress too much about perfection. No cap, even pizza can fit in if you balance it out right.

1
u/zombielifter

man, hitting those protein targets is like trying to find a unicorn. I usually just chug protein shakes after workouts. At least it's easier than cooking when you're tired.

1
u/macrocounter98

I'd suggest using something like Cronometer for tracking. It breaks down micronutrients too, which is super helpful, especially after treatment when your body might need more support. Also, since you're lifting, consider adding some creatine mono to your regimen. It can help with muscle gains. Just be patient with yourself as you figure out your macros; it might take some time to find what feels right.

0
u/cardio_is_life

I'm so glad to see you focused on your health. You could also consider having your biggest meal right after your workout; that's when your body needs the most nutrients. And don't forget to include carbs for energy! Eating out? Look for grilled options and swap fries for a side salad whenever you can.

26
u/marathonmom_42

As a mom, I understand how hard it can be to prioritize yourself. I started involving my kids in meal prep, and it's been a game-changer! We make it a fun activity, and I get to sneak in my healthy meals too. Plus, it teaches them about nutrition. Win-win!

24
u/marathonmom_42

I've learned that balancing workouts with recovery is essential! After lifting, I make sure to refuel with a good protein and carb source. It helps my body recover and prepares me for the next session, especially when juggling kids and workouts.

8