Protein definitely plays a crucial role in a muscle builder’s diet. Why do you need it and how much do you really need? These are important questions that have to be answered if you seriously want to bulk up.
To give you a brief response, protein functions as essential building blocks for your body. Proper intake on a daily basis will help to build and maintain your muscles. Regular workout will not be as beneficial for you if you do not have enough protein on your meals. At the same time, protein has the reputation of having the highest thermic effect. It effectively aids in your fat loss gains because you will always feel full whenever you have a protein-rich meal.
According to the United States RDA, you need at least 0.8g per kg or 0.4g per pound. This means consuming 80g of protein everyday if you have a weight of 200lbs.
It should be noted, however, that muscle builders are a unique bunch and they need greater amounts of protein for their body. In most instances, the recommendation is to have 1g of protein per pound of body weight. That means 200g of protein if you weigh 200lbs.
So, what are some of the best sources of protein for muscle building? Some examples would be red meat such as steaks, ground round, top round, sirloin and others. Poultry products like chicken and ground turkey are also excellent. Canned tuna, mackerel and salmon are the best choices if you are a fish lover. In addition, milk, cottage cheese, plain low fat yogurt, quark cheese, and whey are some of the top dairy products that should make it to your daily eating plan.
Once you start taking protein-rich meals, be prepared to encounter many related urban legends about it. One of the most common misconceptions is that protein can be hazardous to your kidney. This is simply untrue and there are no studies that support the claim.
Another thing you may hear from naysayers is that protein can increase your weight. This is definitely false as long as you do not increase your daily calorie intake.
Making protein part of your muscle building efforts can be rewarding if you know how to do it right. Again, those who weigh 200lbs will have to eat as much as 200g of protein per day.
You don’t even have to spend expensively just to make sure that you get the needed amount. You can opt to buy generic food and purchase them in bulk to get some discounts.
To learn more about muscle building protein foods, ask ideas for long-time body builders. Many of them are willing to impart suggestions to beginners. Also, you can consider searching the internet or picking up a book that expounds the topic.