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Need Help Evaluating My Cutting Diet Progress
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Nutrition & Diet
Question #16646
45 days ago
119

Need Help Evaluating My Cutting Diet Progress - #16646

karthik

I’m currently on a cutting phase and I’d really appreciate some feedback from people who’ve done this before. Info about me: Age:5'7 Height:5'7 Weight:73kg Activity level:moderate Training routine : strenght training and cardio 6/week My Goals: Fat loss Maintain as much muscle as possible Improve overall body composition Current Diet: Total calories per day: 1500 around Protein per day:130g Carbs per day:100g Fats per day:60g Questions I Need Help With: Are my calories/macros appropriate for cutting? Am I eating enough protein? Should I adjust carbs or fats? Any red flags or mistakes you notice? Any tips to improve my cut?

Age: 22
Chronic illnesses: no
Diet
Gym
Cut
300 INR (~3.53 USD)
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Dr. Bharat Joshi
I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.
45 days ago
5

Hello dear See after careful evaluation i suggest following modification for improvement Increase physical exercise to atleast half hour more since your work out seems less Reduce fast Maintain protein diet similar to current one Do some weight reduction exercises Avoid junk food or synthetic supplements Increase intake of carbs by 25 percent In case of no improvement consult dietician in person for better clarity Regards

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Dr. Prasannajeet Singh Shekhawat
I am a 2023 batch passout and working as a general physician right now, based in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Still kinda new in the bigger picture maybe, but honestly—every single day in this line teaches you more than textbooks ever could. I’ve had the chance to work under some pretty respected doctors during and after my graduation, not just for the clinical part but also to see how they handle people, real people, in pain, in panic, and sometimes just confused about their own health. General medicine covers a lot, right? Like from the smallest complaints to those random, vague symptoms that no one really understands at first—those are kinda my zone now. I don’t really rush to label things, I try to spend time actually listening. Feels weird to say it but ya, I do take that part seriously. Some patients just need someone to hear the whole story instead of jumping to prescription pads after 30 seconds. Right now, my practice includes everything from managing common infections, blood pressure issues, sugar problems to more layered cases where symptoms overlap and you gotta just... piece things together. It's not glamorous all the time, but it's real. I’ve handled a bunch of seasonal disease waves too, like dengue surges and viral fevers that hit rural belts hard—Hanumangarh doesn’t get much spotlight but there’s plenty happening out here. Also, I do rely on basics—thorough history, solid clinical exam and yeah when needed, investigations. But not over-prescribing things just cz they’re there. One thing I picked up from the senior consultants I worked with—they used to say “don’t chase labs, chase the patient’s story”... stuck with me till now. Anyway, still learning every single day tbh. But I like that. Keeps me grounded and kind of obsessed with trying to get better.
42 days ago
5

Hello karthik Based on your age, height, and weight, your current calorie intake and macronutrient distribution can be a good starting point for cutting, but it’s essential to ensure it aligns with your goals and activity level.

Caloric and Macronutrient Breakdown:- - Calories:1500 calories may be appropriate for cutting, depending on your total daily energy expenditure (TDEE). If you’re in a caloric deficit and losing weight at a healthy rate (about 0.5-1 kg per week), it’s likely suitable. - Protein: 130g of protein is excellent for preserving muscle mass while cutting. Aim for around 1.6-2.2g of protein per kg of body weight. - Carbs:100g of carbs can work, especially if you’re focusing on higher protein and fats. Ensure you’re getting complex carbs for energy. - Fats: 60g of fats is reasonable, providing essential fatty acids and helping with satiety.

Here are some effective tips to enhance your cutting phase: 1. Increase Protein Intake: Aim for 1.6-2.2g of protein per kg of body weight. This helps preserve muscle mass while in a caloric deficit. 2. Focus on Strength Training:Prioritize weight lifting to maintain muscle. Compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses are particularly effective. 3. Incorporate Cardio: Add moderate-intensity cardio sessions (like brisk walking or cycling) a few times a week to boost calorie burn without sacrificing muscle. 4. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated can help control hunger and improve workout performance. 5. Manage Portion Sizes:Use smaller plates and bowls to help control portions and avoid overeating. 6. Plan Meals:Prepare meals in advance to avoid impulsive eating. Include plenty of vegetables for volume without many calories. 7. Limit Processed Foods:Reduce intake of sugary snacks and processed foods, which can lead to overeating and hinder your progress. 8. Get Enough Sleep:Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep can affect hunger hormones and recovery. 9. Track Your Progress: Keep a food diary or use an app to monitor your intake and adjust as needed based on your results. 10. Be Patient: Cutting takes time. Focus on gradual weight loss (0.5-1 kg per week) for sustainable results.

Thank you

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Dr. Shayeque Reza
I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.
41 days ago
5

At 1900 kcal/day: Protein: 130 g (520 kcal) Carbs: 150 g (600 kcal) Fats: 65 g (580 kcal)

Your protein is perfect. Your calories are too low. Your carbs are too low.

Fix those two things and your cut will be cleaner, faster, and safer, with MUCH better muscle retention

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Dr. Arsha K Isac
I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.
45 days ago
5

Hello,

Answers to your questions :

1. Your calories (1500/day) are too low for your size and activity. A better target is 1700–1900 kcal to avoid muscle loss.

2. Yes, 130g is acceptable, but 140–150g would be ideal for muscle retention.

3. Carbs are quite low for someone training 6 days/week. Keep fats the same (50–60g) and increase carbs if you raise calories (to ~130–160g).

4. Deficit too aggressive:risk of muscle loss Low carbs:reduced strength and recovery 6 days of training + 1500 kcal = unsustainable

5. Raise calories slightly Increase protein a bit Keep carbs higher to support training Use moderate cardio (not excessive) Consider a diet break every 4–6 weeks Track waist and strength to ensure you’re not losing muscle

I trust this helps Feel free to talk Thank you

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From looking at your current plan, there are a few points to consider. Your calories seem quite low for your weight and activity level. Cutting phases typically involve a moderate calorie deficit of about 10-20% below maintenance. With your weight and activity level, maintenance calories might be closer to 2000-2500, so cutting to 1500 is likely quite aggressive and could compromise muscle preservation. Ensuring you’re eating enough protein is really important here. At 130g per day, you’re roughly at 1.8g/kg, which is a good target, but you might want to consider slightly bumping to around 2g/kg of body weight to help maintain muscle mass during caloric deficit. Keeping carbs at 100g could be low for energy, especially with frequent training. Some people find they function better with slightly higher carbs, ideally timed around workouts for optimal energy and recovery. Maintaining fats around 60g can provide essentials while not overly limiting them, avoiding any dip below 20-25% of total daily intake to keep hormonal functions stable. A red flag would be feeling excessively fatigued, hungry or seeing training performance decrease, which could mean the calorie deficit is too steep. Aim to monitor progress regularly—if weight loss is faster than around 1 pound per week consistently, bumping up calories slightly or adjusting the macro distribution could be beneficial. Minor adjustments based on your energy levels and performance during workouts can go a long way. Also, consider incorporating rest days to allow for recovery and prevent overtraining, which can seriously hinder both fat loss and muscle maintenance. Adjust your targets based on regular assessments, listen to your body’s responses, and don’t hesitate to adapt if needed.

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