The REAL Purpose Behind Cheat Meals!!!!
Ok, Ok guys I know it’s been a while and I have to admit that I have had a lot going on and mentally have not been in it the way that I needed to be, but none the less I am back!!! Now if you have been in the bodybuilding or fitness game for any length of time you have likely heard of cheat meals or “Re-feeds” as they are interchangeably called. I am going to explain the purpose behind these meals and when/how to utilize them effectively so that you can keep your sanity number 1, but also continue to make progress on a regular basis and remain in this game for the long haul!!!!
The first thing I want to hash on is the purpose behind these meals. In all honestly, there are really only 2 reasons to include these meals in your program. For starters, it helps break up the monotony of eating clean for weeks on end!!!! listen, I am one of the most disciplined and strict individuals you will meet, but even I need a break every so often to enjoy a stress free meal that tastes good and has some extra flavor lol. Now I am not saying to go out and binge and eat a bunch of shit, but having a meal not on plan is much needed when its timed right.
Everywhere you read it is recommended to include 1 cheat a week, but I tend to disagree here and I am going to explain why. For starters, cheat meals should ideally serve to reset insulin sensitivity and give your diet a big kick in the ass. If you are progressing, hunger and metabolism are high and you are not mentally feeling as though you are on the verge of caving do you really need a cheat? In my opinion, NO YOU DO NOT!!!!!! Remember that your body will always tell you what it needs and when!! If the needle is moving forward, then your body does not need it, simple as that! Do not cheat just because you think its what you are SUPPOSED to do. There are no rules when it comes to building your body and the same rules true here. Now, if hunger has began to dip a bit, you are feeling a little wore out and motivation has dwindled a bit, then a cheat or re-feed could very well be all that is needed to get things moving again. I mentally you feel a little wore out, then a change very well may be needed to reset the mental side of things.
But, do not for 1 minute feel as though you NEED this just because its what you read here and there, that is total bullshit. Remember there are no official rules to developing the body of your dreams!!! I would go with something a little higher in carbs and fats, such as sushi, or a burger and fries as opposed to total junk such as pizza, cake, etc…..I am a firm believer in adding some nutritional value to the meal so that you do not wreck your digestion!!! One of the worst feelings is feeling like shit after a cheat meal, and feeling sluggish the next day as your body tries to break down this meal and get back to normalcy. So again, go by how you feel and if you ever want to get into specifics and timing I would highly recommend hiring a coach hahaha!!!
BEYOND JUST BODYBUILDING!!!