Posted by u/caffeine_and_lifting·2 months ago·Cutting

Ultra-processed food wrecking my gains? Asking for a friend!

TL;DR: Ultra-processed food's impact on body comp has me questioning my snack choices after lifting.

So I've been diving into the whole ultra-processed food debate, and honestly, I'm a bit freaked out. Saw some meta-analysis by Schoenfeld et al. that showed a strong correlation between those foods and negative body composition changes (effect size around 0.5). I mean, is it really that bad? Like, is my post-lift coffee and donut combo gonna derail my PRs? Anyone else feeling the pain of cravings while trying to bulk? Let's get real about this, fam!

5 comments

Comments

u/depressedlifter·2 months ago

I feel you on the cravings, man. Trying to bulk can feel like a never-ending battle with temptation. I remember one week I had donuts after every workout and I thought I was living my best life, but my body composition didn't agree with that assessment. Just keep in mind, balance is key! You can enjoy treats, but maybe not as a staple post-lift meal. Look for healthier options to keep those cravings in check.

102

u/calisthenics_nerd·2 months ago

Ultra-processed foods can be tricky! While it's fine to indulge occasionally, the main issue is that they tend to be calorie-dense but nutritionally poor. If you're eating a lot of donuts and coffee post-workout, it could mess with your macros. Instead, try whole food sources like Greek yogurt with fruit or a protein smoothie. They can help with recovery and won't derail your gains as much.

u/5k_runner99·17 days ago

Honestly, it's so easy to fall into the trap of ultra-processed foods, especially when you're bulking. I've been there. But instead of donuts, have u thought about making some protein pancakes or oatmeal cookies? They can satisfy those sweet cravings without trashing your macros. Plus, u'll feel way better afterward!

u/runningfromcardio·2 months ago

Lmao, bro got cooked by donuts! I get it, they taste amazing, but if you're serious about your gains, you might wanna switch it up. You can't out-lift a bad diet. Just keep that in mind when you're sitting there enjoying your sugar rush.

u/caffeine_and_lifting·2 months ago

100! It's all about balance, right? A donut here and there won't ruin your progress, but if it's every day, you might wanna reconsider. I mean, I can't resist my post-lift coffee either, but I'm also slamming protein shakes like it's my job. Find that sweet spot where you enjoy life but also keep making gains.