When you are bodybuilding, you need to make sure that you are getting the right nutrients to help your body recover and grow.
Did you know that what you eat can actually make or break your progress?
If you are not eating the right foods, you will not see the results that you want. That is why it is important to follow a bodybuilding diet plan.
In this article, we are going to give you 6 foods you should eat and 6 foods you should avoid while bodybuilding.
6 foods you should eat while bodybuilding
We'll kick things off with the good stuff - the foods that you should be eating while bodybuilding.
1. Chicken Breasts
Chicken breasts are a great source of protein and they are low in fat. This makes them perfect for bodybuilders who are looking to build muscle and lose fat.
Also, chicken breasts are a lean protein source, which means that they are easy to digest and won't make you feel bloated.
2. Salmon
Salmon is an excellent source of protein and it is also packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are great for your heart and they can also help to reduce inflammation.
This is important because inflammation can lead to muscle soreness and it can also prevent you from making progress.
3. Lean Beef
Lean beef is another great source of protein for bodybuilders. It is also a good source of iron, which is important for oxygenating your muscles.
Also, beef contains creatine, which is a compound that can help to increase your strength and power.
4. Eggs
Eggs are one of the most complete sources of protein you can find. They are also a good source of healthy fats and vitamins.
Did you know that eggs actually have a higher biological value than beef? This means that your body can better utilize the protein in eggs.
5. Quinoa
Quinoa is a great source of protein and it is also a complex carbohydrate. This means that it will help to keep you feeling full for longer.
Also, quinoa is a good source of iron and magnesium. These minerals are important for energy production and muscle contraction.
6. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and it is also packed with probiotics. These are live bacteria that can help to improve your gut health.
Yes, that's right, probiotics can actually help you build muscle!
6 foods you should avoid while bodybuilding
Up next, we have the foods that you should avoid while bodybuilding.
1. Processed Meats
Processed meats are high in saturated fats and they can also contain a lot of sodium. This can lead to weight gain and it can also increase your risk of heart disease.
You should avoid processed meats such as bacon, ham, and sausage.
2. Trans Fats
Trans fats are often found in processed foods and they can also be found in some vegetable oils. They can increase your risk of heart disease and they can also lead to weight gain.
Also, trans fats can actually decrease your testosterone levels, which is not good for bodybuilders.
3. Refined Carbs
Refined carbs are found in foods like white bread and white rice. They have been stripped of their nutrients and they can cause spikes in your blood sugar levels.
Examples of refined carbs include white bread, white rice, pasta, sugary cereals, and more.
4. Alcohol
Alcohol is high in calories and it can also lead to weight gain. It can also interfere with muscle growth and it can dehydrate you.
Did you know that alcohol can actually decrease your testosterone levels by up to 25%?
5. High-Sodium Foods
High-sodium foods can cause water retention and they can also lead to high blood pressure. For example, a single can of soup can often contain over 1,000mg of sodium.
That's right, just one can of soup! Therefore, it's best to avoid high-sodium foods such as canned soups, frozen dinners, and processed snacks.
6. Sugary Drinks
Sugary drinks are high in calories and they can also lead to weight gain. They can also cause spikes in your blood sugar levels.
It's amazing how many calories are in some of these drinks. For example, a single can of soda can contain over 150 calories.