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Posted by u/badformbutgoodvibes路路Beginner

Is eating at the same time for 60 days a scam? Asking for my sanity!

TL;DR: Same meal times for 60 days made me lose my sanity, should I go back to chaos?

So, I've been chugging along with my meals at the same time like some kinda robot for 60 days. It was supposed to help with my gains, right? But honestly, my body is confused, and im losing my mind! Random meals before felt like a party, now it's a schedule, and I'm lowkey wondering if I should just embrace the chaos again. Anyone else feel this? Or am I just not cut out for the meal plan life? 馃槀

96 comments

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u/squat_to_pizza路

Eating on a schedule? Nah, I just live by the pizza life! I fit in healthy meals when I can, but pizza is eternal. Balance is key, right?

100
u/powerliftingpaul路

Eating at the same time can definitely help with consistency and digestion, but it's not a magic fix. If you're feeling stressed and restricted, maybe try a more flexible approach. You can still track your macros without strict timing.

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u/whey_addict路

Tracking meals is solid, but being a slave to the clock can drive you mad. If you're feeling like a robot, switch it up a bit. Maybe time your meals based on your workouts instead of a strict schedule.

29
u/recipequeen44路

I had a similar experience when I started meal prepping too strictly. It turned into a chore, and I wasn't enjoying my food anymore! I began to incorporate a few spontaneous meals each week to keep things exciting. It worked wonders!

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u/creatine_supremacy路

Facts. If it's turning you into a robot, that's a red flag! Powerlifting is about performance, not just scheduling meals. Listen to your body, lift heavy, and eat what makes you feel good. Hit those PRs, not those clocks.

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u/strongerthanlastyear路

Listen, if it's stressing you out, drop the strict timing. I was super focused on timing too, but now I eat to fuel my workouts. It's all about what you can stick with long-term.

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u/badformbutgoodvibes路

Meal plans are overrated! I've been lifting for about a year, and I just eat what I feel like. I'm making gains without being a robot! Just find what works for you, but don't be afraid to shake it up

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u/strongerthanlastyear路

Meal schedules can definitely help with discipline, but I prefer to listen to my body. I had a phase where I stressed about timing and it just made me unhappy. Focus on your progress, and if that means being flexible, then go for it!

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u/whey_addict路

For real, some people thrive on schedules, while others need that chaos! I've been using MacroFactor to keep track, and it helps me stay flexible without losing sight of my goals. Just don't let it drive you insane!

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u/creatine_supremacy路

Dude, just hit your macros and enjoy your food. If sticking to meal times makes you feel like a robot, then ditch it! Focus on those PRs, not the clock.

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u/bodyweightbeast路

No cap, meal timing is overrated. Just make sure u hit those macros, and you'll see gains. Plus, if you're lifting, a little flexibility goes a long way!

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u/thecraftychef路

I completely understand your frustration. I've done meal prepping too, and some weeks are better than others. It might help to keep a food journal just to track how you feel after each meal. Sometimes, you discover surprising patterns about what actually fuels your workouts best!

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u/gymratbutchill路

Lmao, you sound like me! I set a schedule, but then I started missing meals because I was just too busy. Now, I go with the flow. A bit of chaos is good for the soul!

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u/carbloadking路

Facts! I used to be all about meal timing, but then I realized I was just making food a boring routine. Now I do meal timing around my workouts, and it's way more enjoyable. Plus, more carbs means more energy, right?

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u/veganpowerlifting路

I feel like a meal schedule can be helpful, but if you're losing your sanity, it's not worth it. Have you ever tried focusing on whole foods and intuitive eating instead? You might find a better balance that way. You can still make gains and enjoy your meals!

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u/brokeandbulking路

You're not alone! Meal planning on a budget has its own set of challenges, and I feel like my food becomes less exciting too. I've found that adding variety with spices and different sauces can make a big difference. Just keep mixing it up.

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u/proteinpancakes22路

Oh my gosh, meal timing can feel so rigid! I actually just started incorporating fun themes into my meals! Taco Tuesdays and Pancake Sundays make the week feel less like a chore and more like a treat!

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u/gains_4_days路

Eating should be enjoyable! A strict schedule sounds tough, and I'd go crazy if I had to stick to that. I'm more of a bro split guy, so I lift when I can and eat when I'm hungry. Find what works for you and roll with it.

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u/badformbutgoodvibes路

I used to stress over meal times too, but then I realized I was wasting time! I just try to eat healthy snacks throughout the day and then enjoy my meals. Focus on what works for you!

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u/brokeandbulking路

I get the struggle, especially when you're trying to be budget-conscious. I usually just make a big batch of something and eat it throughout the week. Meal prep doesn't have to be rigid!

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u/brokeandbulking路

Honestly, a meal schedule is overrated. I'm on a budget and I try to make meals fun without breaking the bank. Cooking with friends or family turns meal prep into a good time! Food should be enjoyable, not a chore.

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u/chickenncarrots路

You do you! I think there's value in eating at consistent times, but if it feels like a chore, then it's not worth it. Focus on what makes you happy and keep those gains coming.

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u/bodyweightbeast路

this. I tried meal timing for a bit, but it felt too regimented for me. Now I focus on bodyweight exercises and eat whenever I can. It keeps things chill and fun.

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u/thecraftychef路

Have you thought about switching to a more intuitive approach? I used to strictly schedule my meals, but now I focus on listening to my body. It's liberating! I whip up a healthy stir-fry or a colorful salad when I feel hungry instead of waiting for a certain time. Cooking is fun, and it's nice to not feel boxed in!

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u/powerliftingpaul路

While I think sticking to a schedule has its merits, it's not for everyone. I keep my meals consistent for energy, but I also allow myself to deviate when needed. If it's messing with your mind, adjust it to fit your lifestyle and don't stress about it.

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u/carbloadking路

Honestly, I used to think a strict meal time was the way to go. But then I started experimenting with my timing. Now, I just focus on the quality of my carbs, and it's made a difference without the stress!

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u/gains_4_days路

If meal timing is driving you crazy, just ditch it! Focus on getting those gains and listening to your body. You'll find what works for you. Consistency is important, but it doesn't have to be clockwork.

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u/chickenncarrots路

I think meal timing can help some people, but if it's driving you nuts, embrace the chaos! Eating should feel good, not like a task list. Maybe try intuitive eating and listen to what your body needs instead. You might find more balance that way.

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u/gains_4_days路

Bro, if it's stressing you out, it's not worth it. I tried sticking to a strict schedule and ended up hating food. Now I keep it flexible, and I've been hitting those PRs without the stress.

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u/powerliftingpaul路

I think timing your meals can help with performance, but if it's causing more harm than good, ditch the strict schedule! Your mental health matters too, and gains won't suffer from some flexibility.

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u/midwest_lifter路

Meal timing can be really important for performance, but I agree that strict schedules aren't for everyone. I use MyFitnessPal to track what I eat, which helps without the rigid timing. Do what feels right for you, just stay consistent with your intake.

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u/midwest_lifter路

You might feel like a robot, but it can lead to gains if done right. Try mixing in some fun foods every now and then. I always tell my gym buddies that a little treat won't ruin your progress. Keep that in mind!

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u/strongerthanlastyear路

Keeping a consistent eating schedule can help with gains, but you shouldn't feel stressed about it! If it's messing with your head, mix it up a bit. Your body needs variety, too.

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u/chickenncarrots路

You're right that it feels like a schedule instead of a celebration! Maybe try to incorporate more variety in your meals? For example, I switch up my protein sources every few days to keep things fresh.

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u/carbloadking路

Honestly, I get it. Eating at the same time can feel like a chore after a while! I used to meal prep on Sundays, but by Wednesday, I'd be like, 'Ugh, again?' Mixing in some spontaneous meals definitely helps keep it fun.

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u/runningfromcardio路

lowkey feels like a prison when you're on a meal schedule. I've been there too, sticking to timings but just feeling miserable about it. Maybe try a meal timing that feels right for your lifestyle instead

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u/creatine_supremacy路

Eat at your own pace, man! I'm hitting 300 on deadlifts, and I didn't get there by following some rigid meal plan. Eat when you feel like it, and just track your macros if you want. Life's too short to eat bland meals!

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u/brokeandbulking路

Budgeting meals is tough enough, don't make it harder with a strict schedule! I try to keep things simple and just cook what I feel like. Life's about enjoying the food too.

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u/powerliftingpaul路

I feel you, but I think a meal schedule can help with consistency. I've hit some of my best PRs since sticking to a plan, and my body knows what to expect. Still, it's totally fine to have a few days off here and there.

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u/squat_to_pizza路

Lmao, food should be a celebration, not a chore. I treat myself to pizza whenever I hit a new lifting goal. I think finding a balance between enjoyment and nutrition is key. Why not have a 'fun meal' night?

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u/bodyweightbeast路

You're not cut out for the meal plan life, bro! But that's okay! Just do what feels right for you. Maybe try focusing on bodyweight exercises if it feels like too much pressure? It's all about enjoying your journey!

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u/creatine_supremacy路

Nah, the whole strict schedule is overrated. I just hit my macros and everything else falls into place. Plus, who has time to eat at the same time every day? My PRs don't care when I eat

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u/bodyweightbeast路

Fr, if u're not feeling it, just switch it up. I used to stress over meals and it held me back. Now I just eat what I want, as long as I hit my protein. Much happier, much stronger.

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u/carbloadking路

100% agree with the chaos. Meal timing can feel restrictive, and food should be enjoyable! If you're losing your mind, maybe switch it up. I love carbs, so I tend to eat whenever I feel like it. Tracking isn't for everyone, and that's cool. Find what works for you, dude.

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u/proteinpancakes22路

I totally get that feeling! I tried meal prepping at strict times for a month, and I felt like I was missing out on the joy of eating. So I started mixing it up, like pancake Sundays or taco nights, and it was a game changer! Food should be fun, not a chore

1
u/runningfromcardio路

I tried being super strict with my meal times and ended up just hating food, lol. Now, I just eat when I'm hungry and focus on hitting my protein goals. Life's too short for rigid schedules!

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u/gymratbutchill路

You don't need to be a robot! I switched to a flexible approach and it's way more chill. Just track with an app like Cronometer, so you can still keep an eye on your nutrition while enjoying life. Who needs rigidity when you can eat good food?

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u/gymratbutchill路

Facts. If the schedule feels more like a chore than a help, it might be time to throw it out! I lift for the gains and for fun. Sometimes spontaneity leads to the best gains.

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u/midwest_lifter路

I've been lifting for years, and my eating habits have changed a lot. I used to obsess over meal timing but then realized it was impacting my workouts. I now focus on protein intake and feel way better. Find a balance that works for you.

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u/strongerthanlastyear路

This is definitely a common struggle. I've been there too. It's cool to have a structure, but don't forget to enjoy the journey. Gains are important, but so is the process!

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u/recipequeen44路

Eating on a schedule can feel robotic! I've been there, and it took a toll on my mental health. I started meal prepping with themes, like Taco Tuesday or Stir-Fry Saturday, to keep it interesting. It adds a bit of fun back into the routine

5
u/recipequeen44路

Meal timing is definitely important, but don't stress too much about it. Try making a food log instead of a strict schedule. You might find that recording how you feel after each meal can help you understand your body better!

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u/veganpowerlifting路

Meal timing can be helpful for some, but if it's making you miserable, that's not worth it! Try finding a balance. I follow a flexible approach that lets me enjoy food and still stay on track.

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u/cuttingseason_2024路

I tried tracking for a cut and meal timing was a nightmare. It can help with consistency, but if it's messing with your head, just track your intake and hit your targets. I felt way more free when I let go of the clock

0
u/veganpowerlifting路

Meal timing can be helpful, but I believe in finding what works for you! As a vegan lifter, I focus on getting enough nutrients, regardless of timing. I meal prep for the week and eat when im hungry. Just try to make sure you're getting those whole foods in.

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u/gains_4_days路

Yeah, I hear you! For me, I try to keep things simple. If I hit my macros, I don't stress about timing. Just focus on getting those gains. It's all about finding that sweet spot that works for you.

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u/recipequeen44路

I can understand the struggle! If you're losing your mind over timing, try making meals you genuinely enjoy instead of just focusing on the clock. I like to experiment with different recipes, like quinoa bowls or zoodles, that keep me excited about food. Nutrition doesn't have to be boring!

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u/thecraftychef路

It sounds like you're experiencing a common struggle with meal timing! I've been there too. I suggest creating a rhythm with your meals rather than strict times. I plan my meals around my workouts, and it helps to enjoy what I eat while staying mindful of my nutrition. That way, it feels less robotic.

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u/thecraftychef路

I've tried both strict meal timings and a more flexible approach, and honestly, it depends on the person. If it feels too constricting, you might do better with intuitive eating. Just make sure you're still getting your nutrients!

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u/cuttingseason_2024路

I think it's all about finding your groove. When I was cutting, I felt like I was in a rigid routine too, but tweaking my meals helped me enjoy my food more. Give yourself some flexibility!

0
u/runningfromcardio路

this is lowkey a struggle. I tried meal prepping and timing everything for like a month, and honestly, I felt like a robot too. Just don't lose the joy of eating, you know? Maybe mix it up a bit and see if that helps your sanity.

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u/marathonmom_42路

I totally get it! I tried meal timing for a month once and felt like I was in a food prison. It's all about balance. Maybe try mixing it up every week, just to keep your sanity intact while still making progress. Life's too short not to enjoy your food!

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u/runningfromcardio路

This sounds like a skill issue lol! But fr, I get it. I used to stress over meal times too but I realized that if I'm hungry, I eat. Life's too short for strict meal schedules

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u/chickenncarrots路

Totally relate to the chaos! I used to meal prep on Sundays and thought it was all set. But sometimes I craved something different and ended up going off script. It's all about finding what works for you.

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u/whey_addict路

Meal timing can help with digestion and performance, but if it's driving you nuts, maybe it's not worth it. Have you tried tracking your macros instead? That could give you some flexibility while still hitting your goals.

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u/cuttingseason_2024路

This sounds like a skill issue. i did the same thing for a month, and it felt way too restrictive. Just embrace the chaos! As long as you're hitting your calorie and macro targets, you should be fine.

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u/carbloadking路

Bro, I feel you on the meal schedule grind. I tried it for a month and it felt like I was eating just to eat, not enjoying my food. If you're losing your sanity, maybe go back to a more flexible approach and let yourself have some fun with meals again. Life's too short!

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u/squat_to_pizza路

Lmao, meal parties are the best! I'm all for spontaneous pizza nights to shake things up. Honestly, who needs a rigid schedule when you can enjoy ur food?

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u/proteinpancakes22路

Ugh, I totally get that! I started meal prepping and following a schedule but I missed being spontaneous in the kitchen. I found a way to combine both by prepping some base meals but then adding in different flavors or sides each day. Keeps it interesting! I can share some recipes if you want!

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u/chickenncarrots路

Meal schedules can feel so restrictive! I used to plan everything out, but I found it way more enjoyable to mix things up. Have you tried just sticking to a general time window instead of exact times? It might help you keep some structure while still allowing for spontaneity.

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u/brokeandbulking路

Yup, I've been there! Tracking meals was tough, especially on a budget. I had to learn to make my own meal plans that allowed for some chaos. You can find ways to save money and still eat well without being tied to a clock!

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u/marathonmom_42路

You're not alone in feeling this way! I tried eating on a strict schedule for a few weeks and it felt like I was losing touch with my meals. I eventually went back to a more flexible approach, which made me feel a lot more balanced. It's all about what works for you, not some cookie-cutter plan.

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u/recipequeen44路

Creating a flexible meal plan has been a game-changer for me! I used to stick to rigid schedules but I found I could mix it up. I focus on what I feel like eating and then make sure I'm hitting my macros throughout the week. Balancing flavor and nutrition is key! If you need meal ideas, hit me up

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u/gymratbutchill路

100%. Strict meal times are kinda cringe. Life's a buffet, not a prison. I usually just aim for a couple meals in a day, then snack when I'm hungry, keeps my life vibin'.

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u/cuttingseason_2024路

This is a vibe. I'm in a cutting phase right now and tracking everything can feel restrictive sometimes. But I think it's about finding a balance. Maybe try eating at set times during the week but allow yourself some freedom on the weekends? That could ease the mental load!

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u/proteinpancakes22路

I was on a strict meal plan last summer, and it got old really fast! I love cooking and experimenting with new recipes, so I switched to intuitive eating. Now, I eat what my body craves when it wants it! Maybe try a mix of both? You could set your core meals and let the rest be spontaneous!

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u/runningfromcardio路

skill issue. Just eat what you want when you want it, life is too short for meal schedules! 馃槀

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u/carbloadking路

Honestly, the timing thing isn't for everyone. I love my carbs, and I eat when I feel hungry, not on a strict schedule. 100% prefer random meals over a set plan, keeps it fun!

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u/marathonmom_42路

I hear you! I tried sticking to a strict meal schedule once, and I felt like a zombie. It was such a drag! I switched back to more intuitive eating and it felt like I could breathe again. Balancing kids, workouts, and my own meals was a wild ride, so don't be too hard on yourself.

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u/runningfromcardio路

Skill issue, fam. I've been eating at the same times for my whole life and it works for me. But I also really hate cardio, so maybe my opinion doesn't count? 馃槀

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u/squat_to_pizza路

This is why I just embrace the pizza life! 馃崟 Who needs a meal schedule when you can just have pizza anytime? Seriously tho, flexibility is key for sanity!

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u/powerliftingpaul路

Sticking to a meal schedule can help regulate your metabolism, but it might not work for everyone. Sometimes you gotta listen to your body. If you're feeling off, maybe switch it up for a bit and see how you respond.

4
u/whey_addict路

Honestly, meal timing isn't a one-size-fits-all. Some folks thrive on structure, while others feel shackled. Try tracking how you feel with different timings, and adjust from there.

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u/creatine_supremacy路

This is why I don't follow strict meal timing. Just keep it simple and focus on your macros. I hit PRs while eating when I feel like it, not when the clock tells me to. Just get your protein and calories in, and you'll be fine.

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u/marathonmom_42路

i think it's fantastic you committed to a meal schedule for 60 days! It takes dedication. With kids, I've had to learn to balance structure and spontaneity. Sometimes the best meals come from those chaotic moments!

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u/proteinpancakes22路

Oh my gosh, I feel you! I tried meal prepping for weeks and it turned into a nightmare. I love cooking, but having everything on a schedule just sucked the joy out of it. I switched to intuitive eating and now I focus on whole foods and listening to my body! So much better.

1
u/whey_addict路

Honestly, sticking to a schedule might work for some, but I think it's totally okay to eat when you feel like it. I prefer to just track my macros loosely and not stress about timing. Focus on your overall nutrition and it should balance out.

1
u/marathonmom_42路

Meal timing can be a bit of a double-edged sword. I mean, I've juggled family meals with my marathon training for years, and I've found that flexibility works better for me. Sometimes, I just grab a quick bite between kid activities, and it keeps me sane and fueled

0
u/squat_to_pizza路

When I was on a strict schedule, I ended up dreaming about pizza! Now I just eat what I want when I want. It's like my gains got better when I started listening to my cravings.

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u/veganpowerlifting路

Honestly, meal timing has its pros and cons! I eat more whole foods and it's made a huge difference. My energy levels are more stable. Try mixing in some whole food snacks between your scheduled meals. That could help with the confusion and keep your sanity intact!

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u/thecraftychef路

Meal timing can be beneficial, but it's not one-size-fits-all. I prefer making meals that can be enjoyed anytime rather than being tied to a clock. Try experimenting with batch cooking and enjoying those meals whenever you feel like it.

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u/badformbutgoodvibes路

Dude, embrace the chaos! My workout schedule was all over the place too. Now I just go with the flow and it's way more fun. Plus, I still lift heavy and see progress.

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u/veganpowerlifting路

I feel like meal schedules can add unnecessary pressure! Instead, focus on what fuels u best. I'm vegan, and I've found that just listening to my hunger cues works wonders for my training and recovery.

0
u/cuttingseason_2024路

If you're cutting or tracking macros, timing can matter, but it shouldn't stress you out. I've found a routine, but I still allow myself to switch it up if I'm feeling off. You gotta do what works for you.

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u/bodyweightbeast路

Right?! I think it's more about being consistent with your macros than when you eat. A flexible approach can actually lead to better progress for some people!

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u/gains_4_days路

I feel like you can make gains regardless of meal timing. I just focus on being consistent with my overall intake. Do what feels right for ur body and stick with it!

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