Food is what your body uses for fuel. So it’s only natural that you’d want to give it the right fuel to take your body goals in the right direction. But if you’ve spent most of your life munching without being mindful, you may need help hacking your pantry to get big.
In this blog, Andrew Demetre, Charleston-based fitness instructor, reveals everything you need to know about muscle food and the ways you can use this information to bulk up!
Finding the Right Foods for Fork to Fitness Fuel
Some foods are naturally incredible for gainers and lifters, while others are specifically marketed and designed to benefit them.
You’ll want to strike a good balance between eating enough of a balanced diet while supplementing with more functional foods to sustain more extended and more intense workouts. Here’s what you’ll want to add to your cart the next time you hit the grocery store.
High Protein
Foods high in protein are synonymous with muscle growth. If you aren’t incorporating protein into every meal and every snack, you’re wasting an opportunity to nourish your weary muscles with much-needed protein. You’ll commonly find protein in animal sources like eggs and meat and plant sources like tofu and beans.
Gainers can supplement their protein intake through bars, powders, and gels. If you’re trying to get big, consuming these isn’t necessarily vital, but they’re still a huge asset for anyone trying to get huge. Do your best to find protein sources that aren’t high in sugar for the best results.
Functional Carbs
Hopefully, the world is waking up to the power of good carbohydrates. They’re insanely powerful for post-workout muscle recovery and can help stamina during long workouts. Whole wheat bread or pasta is the perfect carb choice to keep healthy while bulking properly for workouts.
Not all carbs are created equal, so it’s important to watch for anything that’s primarily cheap sugars or syrups. These are hallmarks of the so-called “energy” bars common with many in the exercise world. Carbs derived from these sources may give you temporary energy, but it burns out fast and isn’t good for long-term growth.
Healthy Fats
Fats can also be your friend! But, like with carbs, you must keep an eye on which ones you’re ingesting and how much. Healthy fats from salmon or avocado boost energy and play nicely with healthy carbs and protein.
A Glimpse into Andrew Demetre, Charleston Fitness
Andrew Demetre is a health coach, bodybuilder, and physical trainer working in Charleston, South Carolina. He found his calling during the pandemic when he realized the importance of a flexible workout routine that enables people to prioritize their health and fitness goals.
He’s used his expertise to train clients from the comfort of their homes, wherever they may be, to give them the same attention and quality they would get from working out at a gym – without the membership.
