cutting and the harris benedict formula

**jgg1221** · 01-22-2005, 08:25 PM

ok here goes

i used that harris benedict formula based upon my total LEAN body mass... (meaning, i subtracted the amount thats body fat to see the results as if i were 0% body fat)
the result was 1950Kcal, and i multiplied it by 1.75 (because i work out 7 days/week... 3 days lifting, 4 days cardio - 1hr each day) and got 3360Kcal

now in accordance to the formula it says this would be the amount of calories to maintain my body weight

but im wondering... during a cutting diet what percentages should be fat, protein and carbs?
ive heard all different numbers such as 60% carbs, 20% protein, 20% fats
or
40%carbs 40% protein and 20% fats

60% carbs sounds a little crazy to me, because if that were the case id be taking in over 400g of carbs per day.... doesnt sound like a cutting diet to me
40% carbs... maybe a little more reasonable?

I'm essentially looking to see if anyone can tell me what % of carbs i should have to maintain my lean body mass while doing my intense workouts

some more info about me:
20years old,
230lbs, 23% bf
6ft tall
medium rate metabolism when not working out
essentially looking to get my body fat as low as possible while maintaing muscle size and strength

thanks

**bigsd67** · 01-23-2005, 06:52 AM

there is a sticky above that explains this info...you would have to play with your numbers personally, but most have found that a 40/40/20 ratio is a good start, i personally work well with a 50/30/20 ratio for cutting.

**odrorir** · 01-23-2005, 07:11 AM

I do best high protein, low carb/fat
60/20/20
or
70/15/15

I would start at 50/30/20 and tweak it until you get where you like.

Originally Posted by bigsd67

there is a sticky above that explains this info...you would have to play with your numbers personally, but most have found that a 40/40/20 ratio is a good start, i personally work well with a 50/30/20 ratio for cutting.

**jgg1221** · 01-23-2005, 11:02 AM

Originally Posted by bigsd67

there is a sticky above that explains this info...you would have to play with your numbers personally, but most have found that a 40/40/20 ratio is a good start, i personally work well with a 50/30/20 ratio for cutting.

by 50/30/20
you mean 50% protein, 30% carbs and 20% fat right?