Protein - The Most Effective Protein Uses for Bodybuilders
Whether you are a novice weight-lifter looking to bulk up, or an advanced bodybuilder trying to improve his performance, it is absolutely necessary that you have the right amount of protein intake for your body every day.
What is Protein?
Protein is naturally found in your body and is composed, along with other things, of amino acids. Protein is necessary for your body to function and heal itself on a normal basis. There are certain proteins that naturally synthesize in your body but all other proteins must be ingested through diet.
As a bodybuilder, it is especially important that you increase your intake of daily protein as your muscles are constantly repairing themselves. That being said, there are many sites that exaggerate the actual amount of protein a bodybuilder needs. You should increase your intake of proteins gradually, as the introduction of too much protein all at once can have negative side effects.
High amounts of proteins are found in meat as well as animal byproducts such as cheese, eggs or milk. Certain plant-based foods, like tofu, can offer you a good amount of protein as well.
Lean Protein
Although it is important for bodybuilders to get a heightened amount of protein every day, many lifters are hesitant to pack on the extra fat and calories, not to mention saturated fats and cholesterol. With protein supplements as well as lean natural proteins, you can get the right amount of protein without eating extra fats.
If you are looking for a natural way to get lean protein from your foods, you can try low fat or skim milk (which has the same amount of protein as regular milk products) or, a tried and true method, egg whites. The whites of eggs carry the greatest amount of protein yet they have no fat and only a small amount of calories.
Spinach, tofu and soy byproducts are also great ways to naturally add more protein into your diet. All of these products are low in fat, with almost no saturated fat or cholesterol.
Many powdered protein mixtures can help you pack on muscle, but have extra sugar and calories that you may not want. See the Supplements Review page for more information about the best protein mixes.
Disclaimer: Before attempting any exercises, programs, routines, or modifying your current diet/supplement program you must get approval from a licensed medical practitioner. Any methods or advice given in this web site must be reviewed with your physician. Before attempting any new exercises or routines a full physical examination is highly recommended.
