Quote from: Joanna Dark on November 28, 2014, 11:24:03 AM
That might help lose muscle, but I've read and been told my doctor the almost important part of transition (meaning to really feminize) requires protein and a lot of it. I forget the exact mechanism of how it works but it is essential.
Here was a really bulky girl pre-transition (Sonna? SonaTS maybe? don't remember the exact nickname) that followed a very low protein diet (and heavy cardio routines) while transitioning (if I remember correctly), and her results were amazing. Since proteins can be important for transition, if those can be taken from muscles, it shouldn't be a problem. Taking from suplements or diet those that can't be obtained from the own muscles should do. Anyway, check this with your physician.
I don't know what cardio training are you doing, but if I were you I would try running over 45 minutes (if possible 90 minutes) at 75%-85% of your mhr. If possible fasting or at least no eating 3-4 hours before. This way glycogen deposits will be depleted fast and carbs needed from running should be taken as proteins from your muscles. If your sweat smells like ammonia while eating a low protein diet, then you're doing it right, that should be a sign of muscle burning (correct me if I'm wrong). Also making sure eating less than 1.5 gr protein per each pound body weight. How are your macros? If I were you I'll be trying to do something like 55/15/30, very very low on proteins. You can check this with your endo.
Definitely your calorie intake is low, very low specially if you're doing cardio 5-4 times per week, so make sure you're really taking very very little protein. This also takes time. Also, make sure to avoid "plateaus" due to very low calorie intake having short high calorie periods (just take the extra cals from carbs and fats).