Unless you’re training to be a stunt double for The Blob, you’re training your body to get into the best shape ever, right? Getting the right muscle building foods with your workout will ensure this happens in your lifetime. Here are some pointers.

Contrary to the diet mindset so prevalent in our culture, when you’re building muscle, carbs are a necessary thing. Carb-loading will help ensure that your body uses the carbohydrates as energy instead of your protein shake – which you need your body to earmark for new muscle tissue. Eating the right carbs at the right time will also trigger insulin release, which also helps build muscle.

Another ingredient in the muscle building foods list is the protein shake. Whey protein is a great choice, though you can research further on what works for you. You’ll also want to take a casein shake before bed because it takes a while to digest, giving your resting body protein stores to keep building more muscle and stay satisfied.

Add to the protein shake natural foods that are high in protein. Great sources are lean chicken or turkey – and ostrich is fantastic, by the way – lean beef, fish and eggs. Be sure you’re getting at least one such source with each meal.

Finally, you need to remember – drink plenty of water. It’s probably said too many times, but you need more water than you think when you’re training. Replacing your electrolytes while re-hydrating is a fantastic way to make sure you’re getting all you need for proper recovery, and especially if you don’t like water.

This list isn’t exhaustive – there are so many foods you can include. These are the must-haves, the basics, to ensure you get a proper diet along with all that hard training you’re doing. The great thing is, with so many choices, you won’t feel like you’re hitting “replay” on the remote. Mix it up and keep gaining!

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