Sources of Protein for Bodybuilding Needs

Photo Credit: beautyredefined (flickr.com)

Protein is something that you just can't exclude from a bodybuilding regimen. If you're just trying to cut some fat by working out, then you'll be fine as long as you maintain a healthy diet. This applies to bodybuilders too, but they need the strength to perform better in the gym. They need the energy to do more reps. They need to build more mass in the process. All this is covered by protein, hence every bodybuilder needs protein. Bodybuilders can have other supplements of their choosing included in their regimen, such as creatine, but protein seems to be universal.

Here's the thing: protein can be obtained from various sources. Different styles of bodybuilding require different sources of protein. Different types of philosophies require people to find alternative protein sources as well. That being said, here are a few sources of protein

Staying Natural

Protein is easily found in meat. Most times, when you ask someone what their main source of protein is, they'll answer something related to chicken. Specifically, it's the chicken breast and fresh eggs. Proponents of  other protein sources argue that while these are great sources of protein, it takes a while for the body to break them down into the needed amino acids that help with body building. Still, if you want to build your body the natural way through healthy diets and exercise, whole foods with protein and carbs are good for bulking up.

Vegan Option

Obviously, vegans will not have any of the whole foods mentioned above. This isn't to say they're lacking in the protein department, because they're not. There are tons of vegetarian protein foods. If you're the kind of vegan who tolerates dairy products, then milk and cheeses are good sources of protein. Combine them with bread, and you already have a sandwich. Nuts and peanut butter are also excellent sources of protein. If you want to go the Asian way, have some rice!

Supplements

If you want to focus solely on protein products or if you want to complement your diet with protein supplements, then you don't need to look that far. There are countless protein powders in the market right now that you need only pick one and go with it. If you wish to focus on protein, you can get protein powders and protein-based meal replacers. However, it is best to keep a healthy diet for such a harsh workout regimen. So whenever you can, have some fruits and veggies for snacks.

Finally, there's the protein bars. While not as effective as they're portrayed out to be, protein bars are not useless. In fact, they're quite handy if you really need a snack and there's no other way for you to have one. Besides, protein bars aren't that expensive, and they add to your protein build.

Related Links:

A Look Inside the Protein Bar (nytimes.com)

How much protein should I take post-workout? (edition.cnn.com)