Why I’m a Big Fan of Cheat Meals (And Yes, It Involves Pizza ??)

Let’s talk about something I’m sure the Italians will hate me for... My love for a dirty Domino’s pizza. Yep, when it comes to cheat meals, that’s always my go-to. ??

Now, here’s the thing—cheat meals aren’t just about stuffing your face with endless amounts of carbs. In the educated fitness world world, we call it a refeed day, and it’s not just an excuse to indulge. There are actually benefits to doing this once a week, especially if you're in a fat loss phase.

So here's the benefits:

1. Fat Loss and Hormones: When you’re dieting and dropping calories, your body reduces production of the hormone leptin, This can slow down your metabolism over time, making fat loss harder. A refeed day helps spike leptin levels, keeping your metabolism firing on all cylinders. Low leptin are also associated with an increase in the hunger hormone ghrelin. Indulging in a refeed once a week helps keep your grehlin levels in check so you’re not constantly battling cravings. (I Know it's the perfect magic formula)
2. Mental and Hormonal Reset: Mentally, having that one meal where you switch off and enjoy without guilt is huge. But it’s not just about feeling good—by giving your body more carbs, you’re also restoring glycogen levels, helping your muscles recover, and preventing burnout. It’s like hitting the reset button, both mentally and physicall. You'll feel great the next day (Providing you don't over do it)

And don’t worry—you’re not “ruining” your progress with one pizza. In fact, allowing yourself this break can help you stay more consistent long-term, because let’s be real, life without a cheeky cheat meal here and there is a bit boring.

So, next time you’re on track with your diet and thinking about skipping your refeed day, don’t. Enjoy the meal, let yourself off the hook, and get back to it the next day with no guilt!

Until tomorrow’s dose,

Gaz O'Hardy - Your pizza-loving PT ??