Cutting Diet for Bodybuilding: Complete 8-Week Plan
Follow this evidence-based cutting diet for bodybuilding to lose fat and keep muscle. Includes an 8-week plan, macros, meal ideas, and refeed strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories should I eat on a cutting diet?
Start by calculating your Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE), then subtract 300–500 calories. Most male bodybuilders cut on 1,800–2,500 calories per day, while most females cut on 1,400–1,800 calories, depending on body size and activity level.
How much protein do I need while cutting?
Research recommends 2.2–2.6 g of protein per kilogram of bodyweight (1.0–1.2 g per pound) during a calorie deficit to maximize muscle retention. This is higher than the general recommendation because your body needs extra amino acids to preserve lean tissue when energy is restricted.
How long should a bodybuilding cut last?
Most successful cuts last 8–16 weeks. An 8-week cut works well for losing 4–8 kg of fat with moderate deficit. Extending beyond 16 weeks increases the risk of metabolic adaptation and muscle loss.
Do refeed days help during a cut?
Evidence suggests that periodic refeed days — where you temporarily increase carbohydrate intake to maintenance calories — can help restore leptin levels and support training performance. A 2020 study found that intermittent energy restriction helped resistance-trained individuals retain more fat-free mass compared to continuous dieting.
Can I build muscle while cutting?
Beginners and those returning from a training break can gain some muscle during a cut. However, experienced lifters should focus on muscle retention rather than growth. High protein intake and maintaining training volume are the two most important factors for preserving muscle in a deficit.