Are you struggling to put on muscle? Quite a few of our clients embark upon a weight loss journey and successfully achieve their weight loss goals. They soon find out, however, that losing weight does not necessarily equal increases in strength or muscle. If you’re working out consistently, but not seeing these types of gains, this advice might sound shocking. But here it is… you have to EAT MORE. Carbohydrates Fuel Your Workout If you dialed back your carbohydrate intake when you were trying to lose weight, you likely did the right thing. The truth is, most people overindulge in grains, starches, and processed carbohydrates such as bread and baked goods. Carbohydrates are a great source of energy! Yet your body can only process so much at one time, so whatever doesn’t get used by your body for energy during normal daily activities and workouts gets stored in your fat cells. Lowering your carb intake is a smart way to eat only what your body needs. However, when you dip below a certain level of intake (note: this varies from person to person and is based on a number of variables, including but not limited to your biological sex, your activity levels, genetics, current muscle mass, and more), your body may not have enough to fuel you! The thing is… it has to get energy from SOMEWHERE. That somewhere may be your muscles 😨🤯😭 Protein Is the Building Block for Muscle One common issue we find when speaking to our clients at Method3 Fitness is that they can’t seem to fit in enough protein! Yet, research shows that you can increase your muscle mass over time by consuming sufficient amounts of protein while maintaining a consistent routine of resistance training. How much do you need? To keep it simple: Women who strength train regularly should eat about 1-2 palm sized portions of protein per meal Men who strength train regularly should eat about 2-3 palm sized portions of protein per meal Whenever possible, choose lean proteins over those that are higher in fat. Confused? We're here to help! While it may sound complicated, nutrition doesn't have to be tricky (or without flavor!). At Method3 Fitness, our nutrition coaches help our clients find solutions that last a lifetime. Each individualized nutrition plan is oriented around striking a balance between what nourishes your body and what makes you smile. Our San Jose nutrition coaches will tailor a program to your lifestyle to help you gain energy, stay active and enjoy the foods you love! Fill out the “Request More Information Now” box above to receive your free consultation with our San Jose nutrition coaches and experience the Method3 difference OR call us at 408-371-1212 to connect. Hope we can talk to you soon. Method3 Fitness is conveniently located in San Jose. Our team of personal trainers and nutrition coaches serve clients in Los Gatos, Campbell, Willow Glen and other surrounding Bay Area cities. If you found this blog useful, be sure to let us know and SHARE it on your favorite channel! The Method3 Fitness blog is updated weekly by our San Jose personal fitness trainers. All content is designed to improve the way you move, eat, and think so you can achieve your goals and live stronger for today. Check back here each week and LIKE our Fan Page, to stay up to date on the latest tips, strategies and methods to get active, gain energy and get healthy again!