working out kills my appetite

especially since I have started lifting weights, I have found that I have absolutely no appetite. It is not intentional and it is not for lack of effort on my part; however, I have had a hard time this week even getting to 1000 calories. I know over the long run this will not be healthy for my strength and weight loss goals. Looking for suggestions from others who may have experienced it is same thing. Thanks bunches!

Replies

  • bert16
    bert16 Posts: 726 Member
    Unlike many people who are ravenous after workouts, I generally find that I'm less hungry on days that I work out hard, whether that's a long run or lifting. I don't have any big secrets about getting the calories in, aside from always making sure I take in some protein after the workout (protein smoothie or a recovery drink like Recoverite); generally speaking, I tend to be hungrier the next day, so am guessing it all kind of balances out.
  • redheaddee
    redheaddee Posts: 2,005 Member
    my problem this week has been that I am NOT hungry, regardless of whether it is a workout day or not. It has only been a week but I want to head this problem off at the pass before it becomes a more significant concerns.
  • WithWhatsLeft
    WithWhatsLeft Posts: 196 Member
    How long have you been doing it?

    For the first few weeks I'm like that, I'm not hungry. Once I get maybe 4 to 5 weeks in, working hard, I become ravenous and now I'm just obnoxious about it. I must eat every 2 to 3 hours or I pretty much feel sick with it. I'm the person with bags of food in her purse now and I plan conference calls around eating.

    I'd say listen to your body. If you aren't very hungry don't eat, but do make sure get your water and pay attention. Don't be afraid to eat when the urge comes.
  • bert16
    bert16 Posts: 726 Member
    Well, I'd assume that it will catch up with you at some point; those of us using this site to lose weight managed to eat way more calories than we should've been at some point, so it doesn't seem like taking in a reasonable minimal amount for weight loss should be all that difficult for us! I'd give it a little more time and see if your appetite doesn't return; you've gotta fuel the workouts somehow! In the meantime, taking in more liquid calories via smoothies & protein shakes etc. may help. Good luck!
  • redheaddee
    redheaddee Posts: 2,005 Member
    to answer your question, this is the second week that I have been doing free weights with the goal of eventually moving up to heavy weights. And believe me I am most certainly not afraid of eating, not at all! :drinker:
  • redheaddee
    redheaddee Posts: 2,005 Member
    Bert 16 I do make fresh juice concoctions at least 5 days a week on average., and have added a protein shake, chocolate of course, on the days that I lift. maybe I should just blame it on menopause :laugh:
  • coleeli
    coleeli Posts: 40 Member
    I am the same way most of the time. But, I feel like I eat foods that keep me full and am actually eating most of the day so I understand why I'm not hungry after my workout.

    Since I workout in the evening most of the time, I make myself higher-calorie protein smoothies when I don't feel like chewing the rest of my calories. This way I get the rest of my nutrients in without feeling like I'm stuffing my face. I usually add raw oats and/or almonds into my smoothies to boost up the calorie content.

    I had also cut out full fat options like with milk and yogurt before when I was limiting myself. Now to get extra calories without trying, I drink 2% milk, eat full-fat/higher-calorie yogurts, add avocados to sandwiches and salads, cook with olive oil, etc. etc.
  • WithWhatsLeft
    WithWhatsLeft Posts: 196 Member
    LOL then don't worry. I don't know why this happens but it does. Just drink plenty of water and get ready for the appetite to come in. It will.

    My finance won't run errands on the weekends with me now unless I show him the snacks I have packed, because if I don't we have to stop for food. I have to travel for work training soon and my priorities are: Does my hotel have a fitness room with a treadmill and some weights? Where's the nearest grocery store? Does my room have a fridge? What does the caff at my work serve for lunch? Will people look at me funny if I sneak food out of my backpack in the middle of training?

    :) it's all good.
    to answer your question, this is the second week that I have been doing free weights with the goal of eventually moving up to heavy weights. And believe me I am most certainly not afraid of eating, not at all! :drinker:
  • RepsnSets
    RepsnSets Posts: 805 Member
    I dont eat much for the day after lifting weights but after cardio I am ravenous.
  • Bootjockey
    Bootjockey Posts: 208 Member
    I do.

    You should still eat.
    ter
    Try something carb-y before your workout (30-45min before)...a simple banana is a great option, gives you healthy carbs, low in fat and calories...gives you energy.

    And you should eat some lean protein and a little fat after your workout (30-45min)...a little peanut butter, or, maybe some dry beef jerky, or a hard boiled egg and a piece of low-fat (NOT no-fat) cheese.

    The banana before (or something similar) will give you some energy for your exercise, and the lean protein and low-fat after will help repair and feed your muscles...

    -BootJockey

    If you're tired of starting over...
    STOP GIVING UP!!!

    -Do It Now!
  • redheaddee
    redheaddee Posts: 2,005 Member
    ^^^I know I SHOULD, and I certainly TRY. That is EXACTLY my problem right now, I cannot seem to get food into my face, especially the past week. I have NO desire to eat, to the point that it makes me gag a little. Good news is I still have a ways to go, so hopefully the fat stores I still carry will get me through :laugh: