This past Sunday I started IF 16:8. I’m also working out and have increased my water intake from where it had been previously. I’ve checked everywhere but couldn’t find what I was looking for. After my workout, is drinking a protein shake considered a meal and is it considered breaking my fast? The one meal I am eating is around 370-540 cal, 14-19 g of carbs, and around 26-44 g of protein.
Yes it will break your fast. It’s actually not necessary to fill up on protein around workout, as long as your daily balance fits.
You have to make sure to eat enough. One meal like that is not enough! Find your TDEE, and go for about 500 cal deficit. If you eat much less, your metabolism might slow down to preserve energy. That can result in other issues, too.
You need to eat more, to build more muscle. Add another meal of lean protein and fat. Your body needs it, being on a workout routine. You also have room for a light protein shake.
The more muscle you build, the more your metabolism will speed up. Eat more (healthy food) to lose more fat. It’s counter-intuitive, but it works!