We all want to be in shape and sometimes we want to be in great shape; so are willing to put the greatest of effort into achieving this goal. Often, this includes taking supplements which can add a great deal to your workout results (learn the types of bodybuilding supplements and its benefits here). These supplements can be very expensive and for the proper effect, you need to follow a very strict regimen in order to keep track of the time taken and dosage.
Optimizing supplementary intake though nutrition has become more popular these days; as many health conscious people are trying to get away from processed foods and chemicals; or simply just wish not to pay out separately on a tight budget. Why take pills and powders if you can change your diet and get the same results? Next, we are going to talk about some foods and how they can take the place of supplements for your workout routine.
Dairy Products:
Whey protein is a dairy based product which is contained in milk. However, you’d have to drink much more milk to get the same benefits; due to the fact that whey protein is concentrated. Whey protein boasts many other great benefits, such as increased calcium, which is great for helping to build strong tendons and ligaments. They can also help you lose weight! Find out what’s the best milk for weight loss.
Vegetables:
The essential vitamins in veggies are great for increasing testosterone: the natural way. Look for veggies that are high in magnesium and zinc as these work together to help your body produce testosterone. Also, veggies that are high in vitamin B6 help break down carbs for energy and assist with weight control or maintenance.
Grapes:
Mitochondria surround the walls of your cells. These cells obviously contribute to muscle building and grapes help to strengthen the mitochondria to stop oxidative damage. These benefits go far beyond just muscle building. Grapes also create ATP which is a form of usable energy; giving you a boost of power during your workout.
Bananas:
We all know bananas are high in potassium, which helps stop muscle cramps caused by muscle strain. A little known secret is that bananas are a source of dopamine which is a feel good hormone. Couple this with a slower, well-timed release of energy and bananas make an excellent pre-workout snack!
Red Meat:
Red meat has a lot of fat, so it’s not always the best option as a protein source. However it is fantastic for testosterone boosting. You will attain increased drive and muscle mass from beef. If testosterone production is not your primary concern; chicken breast or plain tuna fish both have great protein to fat ratios.
Garlic:
Garlic can take the place of nitric oxide as it essentially accomplishes the same thing. Bodybuilders take nitric oxide to improve blood flow to the muscles; therefore getting nutrients in place for muscle building. Garlic improves circulation by means of vasodilation. Essentially what this means is that garlic opens the veins and arteries: allowing greater blood flow. A little known fact about garlic is that it offers an excellent source of protein too. It’s easy to understand that increased blood flow and a generous supply of protein is great for muscle building.
Salmon:
Salmon is another amazing food for body building. A 4 OZ piece of salmon has about 200 calories to 23 grams of protein. One of the best parts can be the fat. Yes you read that right! Fat contained in salmon is non saturated fat; otherwise known as good fat. Most body builders and dieters are on low fat diets and find themselves fat deficient, so salmon is a delicious tasting high protein way to get these necessary fats.
I think we can agree that all of these foods are simple to obtain and many different recipes can be made for the majority of them. Although you may need to ingest more of some foods to get the same value as a supplement, you can see how ‘going natural’ is effortless, tasty, and easy on the wallet!
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