One major component of a successful cut is ensuring optimal protein intake for maintaining lean mass. For experienced bodybuilders, this could mean increasing protein intake to 1.5g/lb of bodyweight to maximally maintain muscle mass during a cut. In addition, increasing protein intake can also increase energy expenditure which A) can assist your cutting efforts and B) means that excess calories from protein are unlikely to contribute to fat gain.
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▪️ Based on: Ribeiro, A. S., Nunes, J. P., & Schoenfeld, B. J. (2019). Should Competitive Bodybuilders Ingest More Protein than Current Evidence-Based Recommendations? Sports Medicine, 1-5.