Building strong and defined muscles takes a lot of hard work and dedication. There is a saying in the fitness world that abs are made in the kitchen, not the gym. If this is true, stocking our kitchen with healthy foods can help us to get that coveted muscle definition and show it off!
Foods to Make Your Muscles Pop
Therefore, it is essential when approaching weight loss or muscle building to be aware of what you eat. Muscles need quite a few different nutrients to grow and be maintained. Here are some super foods you can eat to help define your muscles.
Milk
Milk is a muscle-growing super food due to the fact that it is jam-packed with protein. More importantly, it is composed of 80 percent casein protein and 20 percent whey protein. Whey protein is easily digested by the body, while casein protein takes longer to digest. This combination feeds your muscles for longer. A glass of milk is a great option any time of the day but is perfect after a workout or before bed. Beyond protein, milk has many other essential nutrients, including calcium and vitamins B2, B12, D, K and A.
Lean meats
Meats are great for muscle building due to their protein content, but you want to get the greatest amount of protein for the least amount of saturated fat. Good sources of lean protein are as follows:
- Wild-caught salmon, which has fewer chemicals than farm-raised salmon
- Turkey breast
- Low-sodium deli meats
- Lean (95 percent) ground beef — extra points for grass-fed beef!
- Pork loin cuts
Almonds
Almonds make for a protein-packed snack that is a great addition to a muscle-building diet. Additionally, they are full of fiber, which helps to keep you fuller longer. Almonds are another great source of antioxidants to help rid your body of free radicals and help your muscles recover and grow faster.
Eggs
Eggs are a perfect protein for muscle building, and they support the body’s protein needs better than pretty much any other food. Eggs are inexpensive, and each egg contains approximately 7–8 grams of protein. The yolk also has vitamin B12, which helps in breaking down fat and promotes muscle contraction.
Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a great carbohydrate to incorporate into your muscle-building diet. They are loaded with vitamins A and C, which are powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants help to rid our bodies of free radicals that cause damage to our cells. They also have a low glycemic index, which means that they provide a sustained amount of energy throughout the day.
Supplements
Supplements have been a long-standing part of muscle growth, and probiotics are one such supplement. Probiotics are healthy bacteria that help to promote digestive health. If you have a healthy digestive system, your body is better able to absorb nutrients and vitamins that are essential for muscle growth. Probiotic Pearls is one brand you can give a try. They are easy to take and require no refrigeration, so they are perfect when you’re on the go!
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