This post is dedicated to outlining 10 awesome foods that pack a punch when chasing the goal of being lean and strong. The following foods have been chosen because they are nutrient dense, are unprocessed, and have a ton of health benefits attached to them. If you make these foods the staple of your diet there is no stopping you from getting shredded. Here goes
1. Eggs
Remember a while ago when eggs got a bad rap because they contained cholesterol? Turns out eggs are an incredible source of protein, fat, and vitamin B12. The protein in eggs is known for having the highest bio-availability (meaning the body absorbs protein from eggs the best) so if you are trying to put on some muscle eat your eggs.... Yolk and all.
2. Oats
Steel cut oats are not only a great source of complex carbohydrates (doesn't cause a big insulin spike) they also pack a ton of fiber, have been shown to contain some powerful antioxidants, and can help keep cholesterol at healthy levels. When it comes to a great source of energy for breakfast ditch the pancakes and toast and eat some oats!
3. Natural Almond Butter
Almond butter is a great way to provide healthy fats in your diet (healthy fats can have a positive effect on fat burning and muscle building hormones) and on top of that almond butter has been shown to help lower blood pressure and packs a ton of vitamin E (powerful antioxidant) which can accelerate recovery from intensive training.
4. Lean Grass Fed Beef
When eating for muscle lean beef is a top choice. Beef from grass fed cows has been shown to have a higher omega 3 content when compared to grain fed cows. This gives you the hormonal benefits of dietary fat without the risks associated with saturated fats. Also beef is a great source of muscle building protein.
5. Rice
In today's carb fearing world people tend to think rice is evil. To the contrary however after a taxing workout your muscles are starving for glycogen and rice is a great way to deliver necessary fuel to fatigued muscles and jump-start the recovery process. Rice is easy to ingest and packs a powerful punch of carbs needed to recover from tough workouts.
6. Green Apples
Green apples are a great food to add to snacks without adding too much sugar. Also, green apples have been noted for reducing problems with the liver and improving health in the digestive tract. Adding green apples can help with maintaining a healthy gut which is important to make sure you are absorbing all the nutrients from your food properly.
7. Avocados
Avocados are truly a power food. On top of providing a host of healthy essential fatty acids and vitamin e, avocados have been noted for their cancer fighting properties. Most notably they aid in prevention of breast & prostate cancer.
8. Grapefruit
Grapefruit has been most notable for the fact that it contains enzymes that seem to help the body burn fat. Aside from this grapefruit is packed with lycopene and vitamins A & C. This combination has also been recognized for it's cancer prevention capabilities.
9. Turkey
Turkey is a protein and B Vitamin powerhouse and contains very little saturated fat. Ground turkey makes a great substitute for burgers, meatballs, and other staples that usually contain higher fat beef & pork. The high protein content allows for optimal recovery from strenuous workouts and the low fat content allows you to keep your total calories in check.
10. Broccoli
Broccoli has numerous benefits for those that exercise intensely. Broccoli contains a ton of potassium and beta-carotene. These 2 nutrients are well know for their immune & nervous system benefits. Intense exercise taxes the CNS (central nervous system) and immune system. Adding broccoli to your meal can help you recover faster and help guard you against germs commonly found in the gym.
Conclusion:
These 10 foods when eaten regularly can help to compliment your training and drive you towards gaining dominant strength along with an impeccable physique. On top of that they will keep you pretty dang healthy too. So eat up and get lifting!
