I do want to lift weights just for general health rather than to get bigger. if I only eat 40 grams of protein, is my effort on lifting weights mostly wasted? I’ve figured out that 40 grams of protein is the sweet spot that I can fast as much as I want. for more protein intake, I have to feel over eaten or fast less (by having a longer eating window).
So my point is, I can give up getting bigger for fasting longer but I wonder if I’m also missing out other general health benefits of lifting weights by eating too little protein and wasting my time.
I would not do this if I were you.
Nutrient guidelines put protein at a MINIMUM of .36g per pound, which is 54g of protein for your weight. And that’s if you are sedentary. If you are lifting weights you need MORE protein because you are literally damaging your muscles by putting them under stress. And your body cannot repair muscle without protein.
Protein isn’t ingested just for “bulking.” Protein is ingested because your body cannot produce the amino acids it needs without adequate protein intake.
Severe protein deficiency doesn’t necessarily manifest itself immediately. It’s cumulative, and without adequate protein intake you force your body to start making decisions about what protein in your body to start breaking down to keep your heart pumping and your brain functioning.
This can result in symptoms such as hair loss, cold extremities, lower core body temp, lethargy, reduced body muscle mass, osteoporosis, among others.
Be sensible please.