do i need to eat directly after lifting develop muscle growth?

for various reasons, it’s really only feasible for me to workout at night, like around 8pm, meaning if i want to consume protein after, i’ll end my fast around 9:30pm. i don’t like ending my fast this late, im not even typically hungry, i just feel like i’m wasting a workout if i don’t have protein afterwards. have any of you developed muscle growth and seen results despite eating 12-16 hours after lifting? is timing protein after a workout actually that important?

Answer

You don’t have to eat directly after a workout, but 12 hours is pushing the limit.

That said, if you’re getting enough protein in your diet and are making your progress with your training, then it could be fine. So keep track of your workouts and see if your IF plan works with your lifestyle.

Answer

Just eat before. If you really feel the need, have something small after. There’s not likely any major difference to consider. Your body will grow if you’re at a caloric surplus. The activity you do over time will influence the composition of that mass. Don’t overthink it.