These days,we seem to have forgotten the importance of protein, in growth. This is why, in my view, certain regimes empathise whey based shakes. These are no substitute for a good, balanced diet, with plenty of protein. Eat well, grow well. As a chef/ patron, that is a mantra close to my heart.
If your regime is working for you, you will lose muscle; surely this is what you want! I am a lot less strong than I was a year ago and have lost almost a full shoe size, without any corresponding loss of weight