Focusing only on weightlifting is not the way to build muscle. To really be successful you must also develop a diet plan that will support the gain and maintenance of muscle tissue, fuel your workouts and keep your entire body functioning well. Don't be overwhelmed by the prospect of planning a diet to support muscle gain, though. Some simple tips can help you feel sure that you are treating your body right while trying to reach your goals.

1. Protein: Except for water, protein makes up more of the body than anything else. It repairs, sustains and builds muscle tissue and acts as an energy source after the body has burned through its carbohydrates. A diet meant to support muscle building would be an absolute failure if it didn't have a strong basis in protein. This nutrient is absolutely essential for getting your body through the workouts but also to actually build and maintain those muscles. If you are trying to bulk up, experts recommend taking your body weight and eating that number of grams of high quality protein per day. Protein can come from meats, dairy products, legumes and supplements. Studies have shown that the liquid supplements are absorbed into the body more quickly so they can be used efficiently.

2. Carbohydrates: Despite popular belief, carbs really are your friends. They are your body's first source of energy because they are quick-burning, and can give you a fast boost through their simple forms such as sugar or fruit, or a longer-lasting effect with more complex versions like whole grains and rice. Eating carbs keeps you feeling energized and feeling great, but they also fuel your workouts. If you do not have an adequate supply of complex carbs in your body when you are trying to work out the carbs will run out. If you are doing weightlifting as opposed to cardio, your body will then turn to protein for fuel. You definitely don't want this because your muscles need that protein to build.

3. Fat: Fat doesn't necessarily make you fat. That might sound counterintuitive but the reality is, your body has to have fat. Many vitamins and minerals that are essential to the functioning of your body are only fat-soluble. This means that if you do not eat enough fat in your diet, all the nutritious food you put into your plan won't make a difference because you won't be getting the actual nutrients from them. Fat also provides energy in its longest-lasting form, protects your internal organs and aids in brain functioning. For those looking to build muscle, fat gets you through your workouts and gives your body the ability to put on and maintain the bulk.

Eating these nutrients in the right amounts is crucial to a muscle-building diet. These elements will give you energy, keep you feeling satisfied as opposed to hungry and tired, and will keep your body functioning so that you will actually gain and maintain the muscle you are working so hard to build.