How Can Vegetarians Build Muscle Without Eating Meat?
There have been numerous examples of people who build muscle on vegetarian diets, the most well known of which is a guy named Bill Pearl. Bill Pearl is a famous vegetarian body builder who went on to win the title of Mr. Universe in both 1953 and 1971. Pearl is a lacto-ovo vegetarian, so he eats eggs and dairy products to aid in his muscle building.
What Kinds of food do you eat?
If you too are a lacto-ovo vegetarian and eat eggs regularly, then you're in luck. Eggs are one of the best foods you can eat to build muscle. They are very high in protein and good fat and nutrients needed to rebuild muscle. Cows milk is also a great source of protein and good fat.
Strict Vegetarians
If you are a strict vegetarian, not to worry, you can still build muscle. There a few diet changes you can make to build muscle mass.
Protein
Get a good protein supplement and add soy milk and tofu to your regular recipes to make sure you are getting enough protein.
Fat
It's a fact, most vegetarians usually don't get enough fat. In order to get the right amount of good fats that help build muscle, eat a few handfuls of nuts like almonds, cashews or pistachio nuts. These are a great source of protein as well as healthy fat. You can also add a tablespoon or two of flax seed oil for healthy fat and an essential amino acid called linolenic acid.
Vitamins
Many vegetarians may look healthy but are often slightly vitamin deficient, specifically vitamin B12. Add a B12 supplement to your diet for more energy or consider drinking soy or whey meal replacement shakes that contain 1/3 or more of your daily vitamins and minerals.
Vegetarians can build muscle, they just have to eat more specifically than people who regularly eat meat. If you follow the above advice, you will be well on your way to building more muscle. Now all you need is a good muscle building plan. - 17273
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