Protein Sources for Different Bodybuilders

Because not everything is created equal (which makes everyone unique), there are also different types of bodybuilders. These types can be categorized according to starting points (if they’re starting with a skinny, fat, etc. body) or goals (buffed up or toned muscles).

Because there are different starting points and bodybuilding goals, there are also different supplementary needs to match or complement them. They will have different nutritional requirements. In this article, we’re breaking down the different types of bodybuilders and what they need to take in terms of meeting their protein requirements.

The Intense Weightlifter – This is the gym habitué who pumps iron with the goal of building huge muscles. What this type of bodybuilder needs is low-fat cottage cheese, eggs, yogurt, milk, and whey protein powder. These foods have to be broken up as snacks consumed throughout the day. If you belong to this category, you should consume 1 gram of protein per pound of bodyweight.

The Lactose Intolerant – First off, how do you know you’re lactose intolerant? The symptoms for someone whose system seems to reject milk or milk products are bloating, pain or cramps, gas, loose stools (diarrhea), throwing up, and rumbling sounds in your belly. If you’re this type of person, you need a pure whey protein isolate with not more than 0.1 gram of lactose per tablespoon.

The Energy-Deprived – This is the kind of guy who usually falls asleep in the afternoon, even at work. What this type of bodybuilder needs are protein-packed sandwiches for lunch. His meal should include turkey, tuna, cottage cheese, yogurt, and egg salad with low-fat mayonnaise. Adding 4 ounces of these sandwich toppings to his lunch per day provides about 20-30 grams of protein as part of his daily protein plan.

The Vegetarian – A vegetarian is, of course, different from a vegan. While the former doesn’t eat meat, the latter is stricter with his diet by not consuming any animal or dairy products. If you’re a vegetarian, include dairy products (including whey protein), fish, and combinations of soy, nuts, vegetables, and lentils in your diet. All these sources are combined to create a total amount of around 1 gram of protein per bodyweight pound.

The Fast Food Enthusiast – Let’s face it. There are bodybuilders out there who just can’t get away from burgers and fries. If that’s the kind of guy you are, well, guess what (and get ready to be shocked for this advice), go ahead and indulge. This doesn’t mean, though, that you can munch on any stuff your favorite fast food offers. If you choose wisely, there’s fast food that can actually be nutritious. Go for items like Ultimate Chicken Grill sandwiches and egg McMuffins. Just be sure you don’t make it a habit to drive through your fave fast food outlet every time you feel hunger pangs. Tailor your choices into an all-day nutrition plan.

So goes the list of different types of bodybuilders according to diet. As you can see, there’s a dietary plan for each type without compromising what one’s nutritional requirements are and still getting the required protein intake (don’t forget to include protein supplements like Myofusion for support).

Peter Roseberg is a health and lifestyle blogger. His expertise on the topic stems from the experience he gained after years of being a fitness enthusiast himself.