The Best 7 Foods to Build Lean Muscles
What you eat has a direct impact on muscle growth and repair. A high-protein diet can help you add mass without sacrificing taste or causing hunger. Ideally, your calories should come from poultry, turkey breast, lean beef, veggies and other nutritious foods that support optimal health. Dietary supplements, such as whey protein and creatine, can lead to faster gains in muscle size and strength. However, good nutrition is the foundation of a perfect body and can help you build lean muscles.
Stock your kitchen with these foods to build lean muscles fast:
1. Eggs
Rich in protein and amino acids, eggs are considered the perfect food. One large egg boasts over six grams of protein, 14 vitamins and minerals, five grams of fat, zero carbs, and only 71 calories. It also provides 14 percent of the RDA of riboflavin, four percent of the RDA of vitamin D, and five percent of the RDA of vitamin A. The protein in eggs supports fat loss and lean muscle growth, suppresses hunger, and improves health.
2. Beef
Beef is important for building lean muscle due to its protein content, cholesterol, zinc, B vitamins and iron content. Beef from grass-fed cattle have much higher levels of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) than conventionally raised cattle, which gives you a boost in shedding bodyfat and building lean muscle.
3. Wild Salmon
This fatty fish is a great source of protein and omega-3s. One serving (154 grams) provides more than 39 grams of protein and large amounts of vitamin A vitamin B12, niacin, folate, and monounsaturated fatty acids. The latest research indicates that salmon contains bio-active peptides that help reduce inflammation, improve insulin response, and strengthens the joints. To reap the benefits, eat at least two servings of fish a week.
4. Brown Rice
A slow-digesting whole grain that provides you longer-lasting energy throughout the day, and during workouts. Brown rice also can help boost your growth hormone (GH) levels, which are critical for encouraging lean muscle growth, fat loss and strength gains.
5. Cottage Cheese
Rich in casein protein, cottage cheese is a great go-to protein source, especially before bed. Casein protein is the slowest-digesting protein you can eat, meaning it prevents your muscles from being used as an energy source while you fast during the night.
6. Nuts
Packed with protein and essential fats, nuts are the perfect choice for any athlete struggling to put on muscle. These nutrient-dense foods contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, dietary fiber, magnesium, zinc, iron, and antioxidants. Almonds are the lowest in calories. Walnuts, hazelnuts, cashews, pistachios, and natural peanut butter are a great choice too.
7. Spinach
A good source of glutamine, the amino acid that is important for lean muscle growth. In addition to glutamine, spinach can increase muscle strength and endurance.
