The first important step in bodybuilding is making the decision to commit to the lifestyle. Wanting to build muscle mass is one thing but going on to achieve the goal will take time, dedication, and effort on your part.
Getting to the gym and pumping some iron is half the battle with bodybuilding. It is also imperative to equally pay attention to what you eat. Even more important, consult with a bodybuilding fitness professional as well as your physician before beginning a bodybuilding program.
Here is a straightforward and easy guide on the best diet for bodybuilding beginners.
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What Should You Eat On A Bodybuilding Diet?
The best diet for bodybuilding includes your macronutrients which are proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It isn't any different than a regular, well-balanced, healthy diet.
Protein
The amount of protein you should eat is 1 to 1.5 grams for every pound of your bodyweight. Make sure that you get in at least 25 to 30 protein grams (6 to 8 oz) for every meal.
The other important thing about the protein is to go for the quality, grass-fed beef and organic chicken, egg, and turkey as well as wild salmon.
Some of the other protein sources you can include to your bodybuilding diet include shrimp, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, casein and whey protein powders.
Related: How to Succeed at Vegetarian Bodybuilding
Carbohydrates
The best diet for bodybuilding includes complex carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes, yams, quinoa, whole grain pasta, brown rice, oats, sprouted grain, and beans. Complex carbohydrates keep your body fueled for longer, and they also digest slowly for better energy utilization.
Go for simple carbs such as white rice, fruit, and potatoes as post workout meal options. These foods are good post workout meals because they help with recovery and they are easily absorbed towards muscle growth.
Keep your carbohydrate intake between the 150 to 250 grams limit daily.
Related: Healthy Fitness Meals Made Simple with Meal Prep
Fats
Fats often get a bad rep in general, but they form an integral part of a bodybuilding diet.
Go for natural nuts, butter, avocados, coconut oil, egg yolks, and extra virgin olive oil as healthy fat sources. Focus on getting in the good fats in your diet because they provide energy, and the body can utilize them better as fuel as opposed to storing them as excess fat.
Keep your fat intake between the 65 to 85 grams range per day.
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Other Foods To Include In The Best Diet For Bodybuilding
While a good bodybuilding diet comprises of the macronutrients listed above, there are some other beneficial foods to include in the diet as well.
Vegetables are important in any healthy diet, and in a bodybuilding diet, they help with digestion. Most vegetables provide the quality fiber that you need to maintain proper intestinal tract function.
Your water consumption also matters and you should consume an amount of water that is at least half your bodyweight every day.
Stay away from diet sodas, sugary drinks, and alcohol, just like you would on any healthy diet.
The best diet for bodybuilding beginners will vary based on individual preferences, fitness needs, and health goals. However, with this simple guide, you can get started on putting together an effective diet towards your bodybuilding goals.