Bodybuilders get their lean look from sticking to strict eating regimens.
Bodybuilding is a physical activity that involves the development, strengthening and conditioning of muscles. However, a successful bodybuilder cannot solely rely on weights to bulk up. The right type of diet is needed to nourish the body and replenish all of the calories that are being burned. By sticking to a strict diet, bodybuilders will reach their physical goals faster.
Protein
Bodybuilders eat a lot of protein. High amounts of protein help the body burn fat and build and repair muscles. When preparing high-protein meals, it is important to distinguish between low-fat proteins and fatty proteins. Low-fat proteins, such as lean meats and egg whites, are healthier and do not add unnecessary fats. Fatty proteins like greasy bacon are not doing the bodybuilder's body any good. After all, the goal of a bodybuilder is to trim down excess fat and bloat and allow his or her leanness to show off more muscles.
WebMD says that seafood is among the best sources of protein. White fish, such as tilapia, has the least amount of fats and oils. Darker fish, like salmon, contain oils that add calories and fat. Chicken (white meat, of course) is a great choice for protein, as well. Vegetarian options include egg whites, peanut butter and tofu.
Complex Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates have a bad reputation as being "weight gainers," but in actuality they are necessary for bodybuilders. According to Muscle and Strength, eating complex carbohydrates is beneficial to developing endurance and building muscle. Complex carbohydrates include brown rice, potatoes, oatmeal and whole grain or wheat breads. Muscle and Strength says that these types of carbohydrates are slow-burning, which means they keep your energy levels up so that you can train longer.
During a hard workout, the body's blood sugar decreases. It is advised for bodybuilders to eat complex carbohydrates after a workout to give the body an insulin spike and avoid catabolic shock. Eating simple carbohydrates, such as fruit, is not suggested as these foods contain a lot of sugar, which the body does not need.
Feeding Frequency
It is important for bodybuilders to maintain a regimented eating schedule so that they are never too hungry or too full. Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day helps the body digest food and nutrients. It is harder for bodybuilders' bodies to digest 2,000 calories in one sitting than it is to eat six or seven meals of a few hundred calories each.
