Great question: different goals + there is no ONE way to eat. Different people need different methods. IF is so effective because it allows cheats and it’s easy to follow. The meat + nuts breakfast that you’re referring to is great for slowing the rise of blood sugar (improves energy), raising test levels, and for gaining muscle mass.

I'm in the same boat right now. I don't want to get any bigger, just keep the six pack and remain ripped, strong, and in great shape.

Laying off will just help you gain fat and mass. You want to keep training (even with the same method if it's working) to get and stay ripped. It's in your nutrition where you'll have to change things up.

Keep short goals, change your training every 3-4 weeks, and keep things exciting. But don't avoid the gym because you don't want to gain anymore. Get in there and maintain that ideal physique.

I'd say take care of your workout, then fast.

I still think my workout is the most important time to feed so I'll eat an hour before, have a shake, then again an hour after. You muscles still need to be fed.