Just finished my first refeed - experiences.

[jake1224]

Note; this is not a "cheat day" thread; they are not one and the same.

Anyway, as i'm coming to the dead ends of my cut within 3 weeks; i'd decided to do my research on a re-feed and have a go at it. I must say, it's an interesting experience and a good mental break from a serious cut.

The process;
I decided to do a refeed after reading research regarding its effects on potential plateau-breaking and hormone regulation; after dieting for so long, that sounds great. I figured out the basic principles. All day, I kept my fat low, and it remained low even through the carb-up meal. About 3 hours prior, I did my depletion workout; probably the most intense workout of my life. I took my SS routine, incorporated all the exercises from both days into one, and did 5x5 on everything save deads. By the end, I was totally wiped out. but it felt so great, endorphins were up and the pump was good. Had my PWO shake and went to Stop n' Shop.

The weapon of choice;
Kashi Heart to Heart Honey-Toasted cereal/Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk.

I ate the whole box of cereal. Ended up using only about 25oz of the milk, so my macros were slightly lower than what's on paper.

The macros at the end of the day; (164/312/39)(2520) (p/c/f)(kcal)

The macros for the meal; (48/224/19)(1480).

Final thoughts;
I decided to eat light all day and put most of my calories into this meal instead of partitioning them throughout the day to meet the macros. At the end of the day, i'm pleased. I met my protein requirements, kept the fat as low as possible (took 4 fish oil tablets throughout the day to get my EFA's) and enjoyed a psychological break. Cereal was always my vice, i'd always binge on it. I love the idea of the refeed to replenish my muscle glycogen, and an added benefit is that i'm now ready to work even harder on my cut & training. However, I think next time i'll choose a hot meal, and something more calorie-dense. Eating a whole box of cereal has left me bloated as f**k. I do think i'm gonna sleep like a baby tonight, though.

Just wanted to share my experiences for anyone looking to do their own refeed; I hope I did it right

[seniorhobo]

Sounds good, im thinking of starting to do this.

[jake1224]

The bloat isn't nearly as bad now, i just feel satisfied as hell. After cutting on 1800 a day, I need to remind myself that 2500 once will not make a difference :P

[aer_vlad]

Your 6'1'' and 155lbs. Why are you cutting?

...you best eat another box of cereal ASAP.