The Fine Line

[sooner_ed]

between weight loss and energy level is definetely a fine one.

I've heard V talk about this recently and I'm experiencing it first-hand at the moment.

I'm in a position where I'm creating a huge calorie deficit by working in a hot warehouse all day. The heat keeps me drinking a lot and eating a little. Slimfast Optima, EAS protein shakes, and water are the drinks of the day now. Light yogurt and Planters Berry, Nut, & Chocolate trail mix are the foods of the day. I know, I know...where's the veggies???

However, I have been experiencing that fine line when I go running after work. By this time, I have been up for 13-1/2 hours and have been working in the heat for about 8 hours. Good grief...I'm having flashbacks from Iraq!!

Well, I'm usually worn out after three miles. So what's the answer? I think it's nutritional timing.

I will find out today if this is going to work. I have made a conscience effort to eat and drink two hours before I go run. I haven't been doing that and I think that's my problem.

So surely it's possible to create that huge calorie deficit while being able to maintain enough energy for a good intense run after work.

So for those of you who are trying to lose weight by creating big calorie deficits but finding you don't have enough energy for your workout, try nutritional timing.

[seriouslyfit]

I know for me that the previous day's nutrition plays a bigger role than the present day as far as energy levels go. I can fast all day and still train intensely that evening. The following day I'll hit the wall in the early afternoon. I've done this a few times and learned my lesson. Are you getting enough simple carbs and protein (4:1 ratio) directly after your training?

[ihatepeas]

I will be very interested to read further posts on this subject. I find that my lack of energy is a big problem for me.

[Shannon Clark]

I think it's also important to consider the diet as a whole. If you're taking in too few calories for too long, you will become depleted of muscle glycogen and fatigue will set in regardless of what you do if you're trying to do higher intensity workouts.

I've read/talked to many people who do use the Intermittant fasting program type of set-up and find they don't struggle too much with their workout after fasting even, but they are also making sure their total macronutrient intake for the day is in line with where it should be.