The idea of eating more to achieve a leaner, more muscular physique might sound paradoxical. For a long time, the equation for weight loss has been simplified to "eat less, move more." However, nutrition professionals are increasingly recognizing the complexity of human metabolism and the importance of a well-planned diet to achieve body composition goals.

Body recomposition involves simultaneously reducing body fat and building muscle. Fat loss requires a caloric deficit, while muscle growth demands consuming more calories than you

Though burning fat and building muscle concurrently may be possible, it's not necessarily optimal, says Lee Boyce, C.S.C.S., an MH Advisory Board member. He warns that aiming for both at the same time may cause a slower rate of change for both goals to be reached.