Thread: bulking

i am contemplating a bulk and had a question so i can adjust my diet.....

correct me if im wrong but protein intake should be a little higher when cutting then when you are bulking. im not sure i understand why you decrease protein and increase carbs on a bulk if protein is what builds muscle.

thanks guys and gals

Originally Posted by bulletproof1

i am contemplating a bulk and had a question so i can adjust my diet.....

correct me if im wrong but protein intake should be a little higher when cutting then when you are bulking. im not sure i understand why you decrease protein and increase carbs on a bulk if protein is what builds muscle.

thanks guys and gals

Your protein intake should be between 1 to 1.5g per pound body weight regardless of if you are cutting or bulking.

People tend to bump up protein when cutting because an increased protein intake helps decrease lean muscle mass loss (more amino acids coming in means less are taken from your muscles). Protein also helps in weight loss as it is more thermogenic (it takes more energy to use in your body - and therefore it adds to overall calorie deficiency) and it is also more satisfying than carbs or fats (so it helps you become full so you are more likely to stick to your diet).

But in terms of bulking/adding mass, it is not 'protein' that builds muscle. Sure, the amino acids from proteins are required as the building blocks of muscle, but you can grow successfully off far less protein than many of us consume. It is the combination of adequate training, adequate energy and adeqaute rest that will lead you to grow. Not just an increase in protein.

Infact, carbs are a much more efficient fuel source for muscle growth than protein and it is far more important to get your carbs right when trying to add mass.

[Although keto/low carb bulks can be done too - it is just a LOT harder]...