Adjusting food intake for lack of activity

[wambam]

There is no doubt about it: I eat BIG to lift big. I never limit myself, within reason, on food intake because of my high training volume. Granted, I eat as nutrient dense food as I can, but the volume I eat is somewhat astonishing.

Anyways, for four weeks starting next Tuesday, I won't be training at anywhere near the volume I usually do. I know that I can’t continue eating during those four weeks like I usually do but I’m not sure how to regulate myself. I will obviously listen to my body (which to be honest, I’m pretty good at knowing what my body needs), but does anyone have any sage advice? Has anyone had a drastic change in their caloric and nutrient needs for a temporary time? How did you adjust?

[sadlebred]

After a few days, your appetite will probably decrease. I listen to my body when I'm not riding or recovering from surgery. Honestly, the first day or two you won't feel like eating much anyway. That could help your body to "reset" to a lower caloric need level.

[hokiegirl82]

I was couch-ridden for 4 weeks twice in the last couple of years - both times were for bunion surgery, so I was off my feet and planted on the couch and doing nothing but sleeping and watching tv for 4 weeks each time. I was also doing CF at the time (but definitely not the amazing level you are at!) so it was a huge change in activity for me to go from 4 WODS per week to sitting on the couch. I basically ate 3 square meals a day, and usually a snack in the afternoon - I didn't track my food, I just tried to eat as healthy as possible and to limit my portion sizes a little bit so I was satisfed but not overly full. I actually lost weight during my 2nd 4 week stint on the couch because I had been indulging a little too much over the holidays and changing my eating habits slightly made me lose weight while sitting on the couch, even without activity.

Like sadlebred said, with less activity you will probably feel less hungry anyways. I was a beast when it came to eating when I was heavy into CF, but had less hunger when my activity level dropped.

[labbie]

I don't know if this makes sense, but I had surgery a few years ago and basically did not limit myself.
I didn't gain any weight regardless of a solid 4 weeks of inactivity, other than some light walking.
Guess the calories previously going to exercise were going toward healing.

As you said I listened to my body and honestly it worked out ok. (even when my body said it occasionally needed ice cream or sweets