Top Bodybuilding Foods List
Many people seem to be under the illusion that muscle is built in the gym, but in reality, that is not the case at all. In fact, muscle is built in the kitchen and in bed, in the sense that we need to get enough rest and recovery, and more importantly than that, we need to get enough of the right nutrients at the right time. When we lift weights, we aren’t building muscle at all, in fact, we’re doing quite the opposite as we’re destroying muscle instead.
That’s why our muscles ache following a workout because we’ve quite literally destroyed them and broken them down. We build muscle when we rest and recover, but in order to do so, we need to ensure that we constantly consume enough of the right foods at the right times, in the right quantities.
Bodybuilding is a combination of around 30% training and 70% diet and nutrition, so if you’re serious about piling on the muscle you’re going to have to be serious about eating the right foods. Here we’ll be taking a look at six of the best bodybuilding foods you could ever hope for:
- Organic Egg Whites
Egg whites are an integral part of any bodybuilder’s diets and for very good reason as well. Egg whites are a fantastic source of protein, which is absolutely vital for the growth and repair of cells and muscle tissue. As well as being rich in protein, egg whites are also rich in vitamins and minerals and are able to boast a complete essential amino acid profile. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein molecules and play a number of key roles in the growth and repair of muscle tissue, as well as various other processes as well. Always opt for organic egg whites if possible. Avoid caged hen eggs at all costs as they’re extremely unhealthy, taste vile and bland, and contain very little nutrients in the slightest. - Mackerel
When people talk about the importance of oily fish, it is often salmon that takes most of the credit, and whilst salmon is indeed an extremely healthy fish, so too is mackerel, not to mention the fact that it is vastly underrated both in terms of taste and nutrient content. Mackerel is from the tuna family, though it contains far more omega 3 fatty acids than tuna. These omega 3 fatty acids are especially beneficial from a bodybuilding standpoint as they help support the joints, they help lubricate the joints, they fight inflammation, and they help enhance metabolism. Mackerel is also rich in various other nutrients, including minerals such as zinc, which helps to boost the immune system and regulate testosterone levels. - Beetroot
Beetroot is quickly becoming one of the most popular health foods in the entire world and beetroot sales over the past 24 months have skyrocketed. The reason for this is that beetroots are rich in nitrates, which act as vasodilators, which dilate the blood vessels and allow more oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to pass through them. As more nutrient-rich blood is able to be carried around the body, athletic performance is greatly increased because various cells found in the muscles around the body will soak up these nutrients and this energy and will basically be able to work harder and for much longer periods of time. They’re also rich in various other nutrients so it’s no wonder why they’re so popular. - Chicken Breast
Chicken breast is absolutely ideal for keen bodybuilders all across the globe because not only is it so affordable, it’s also extremely versatile and can be used in a number of different ways. Chicken breasts are virtually fat-free and are extremely low in calories. It’s a fantastic source of protein, it contains iron, zinc, and various other minerals, and it also contains numerous amino acids in the process. Although chicken breasts are a staple part of many bodybuilders’ diets, many of them will admit to being sick of the stuff due to the fact that they consume so much of it on a daily basis. - Almonds
Almonds contain healthy fats, proteins, and plenty of dietary fiber and are considered one of the healthiest nuts you could ever wish to consume. Almonds are also packed full of vitamin E, which is extremely beneficial and very difficult to get a hold of. It works as a potent antioxidant and can help to prevent a number of different cancers. The benefits don’t stop there, however, as they’re also full of B vitamins that provide energy and help to boost the metabolism, which in turn can help to burn body fat. Almond butter is a real treat for many bodybuilders, with many of them choosing to spread it on whole wheat bagels, or even simply eat it directly out of the jar. - Steak
Whilst chicken breast is the meat of choice for many bodybuilders, red meat such as steak simply cannot be ignored and should not be ignored. It contains minerals such as iron, which help to maintain blood health and circulation. It’s also rich in protein and amino acids, which is obviously ideal for anybody looking to build muscle. It’s also surprisingly lean, especially if you choose for leaner cuts such as the rump. What’s more is the fact that it tastes great, which is a real treat if you’re dieting down for a competition and are used to consuming bland and tasteless foods.
