Old School Bodybuilding Nutrition

Bodybuilding is a sport that has advanced in many ways throughout the years. In recent history, we have seen the increase in the use of muscle building chemicals and supplements bringing on muscle fast. This is everything from vitamin supplements to anabolic steroids. There are even all kinds of ads out there that say you can get "ripped" in record time by using their product. However, there are those that want to build muscle the old school way without the additives. After all, that's the way people used to do it, staying in shape and building muscle naturally. How did they do it? Certainly they had to follow a strict diet or something, right? Indeed, nutrition played a big role in bodybuilding, and still does.

Bodybuilders, specifically, and many athletes, in general, have a passion for protein. Your body needs the protein, simply to replace used cells in your body. This activity is what builds the muscle. In essence, protein are the building bricks of your body. Protein is the basis for many of the body's parts like, hair, skin, bones, connective tissue and muscle. Finding good protein sources is the first key like egg whites, meat, and many vegetables.

The building blocks of protein are amino acids, of which there are 20. Of the 20 amino acids, the human body can make 11, which are called the non-essential ones. The amino acids that cannot be manufactured by the body are called essential amino acids as they must be supplied from your food.

Foods that contain all the essential and non-essential amino acids required for muscle growth are called complete proteins. Since proteins cannot be stored in the body, like carbohydrates can, it is important to consume these complete proteins at every meal.

There are proteins found in all sorts of vegetables, however, they are incomplete lacking one or more amino acids. Natural bodybuilders tend to shy from veggies for this reason. Complete proteins can only be found in animal products like meat, milk and eggs.

Grains and legumes are loaded with protein, as well. Again, they lack some of the essential amino acids needed for muscle gain. In short, a complete vegetarian diet is not conducive to bodybuilding. A great level of fitness is attainable eating nothing but vegetables, but if you want to build muscle, animal products are necessary.

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This information presented is intended to be used for educational purposes only. The statements made have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (U.S.). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease. Please consult with your own physician or health care practitioner regarding any suggestions and recommendations made.