Bodybuilding Diet: What You Need To Know If You’re Going All In

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Bodybuilding is a sport for those who can dedicate themselves not only to lifting, but also to a very stringent diet plan. Whether you take part for personal reasons or for pro status – you must understand first and foremost that you cannot expect to achieve great things until you accept the bodybuilding diet.

What Is A Bodybuilding Diet?​

This is essentially a macronutrient diet. For further reading see; Macros Explained.

In short; your diet should be strategically split between proteins, fats and carbs. Your ratios will depend on which phase of the bodybuilding cycle you are in.

Also see; Bulking and Cutting For Women.

Macronutrient Ratios By Phase​

Which Foods Are Best On A Bodybuilding Diet?​

Typically this diet consists of (but isn’t limited to) the following foods, broken down by macronutrient.

Proteins​

Eggs

Chicken breast

Lean mince (beef, turkey, lamb)

White fish

Tinned tuna

Cottage cheese

Greek yogurt

Carbs​

Oats

Rice

Sweet potatoes

White potatoes

Root vegetables

Fresh fruit (prioritise low sugar fruits)

Beans and pulses

Fats​

Olive oil

Oily fish

Plain nuts

Nut butters

Avocadoes

PLUS: Plenty of green vegetables!

General Rules Of Thumb On A Bodybuilding Diet​

Avoid processed/pre-packaged foods.

Prepare the majority of your meals using whole ingredients.

Eat as much protein as you can – if you struggle to hit your quota, reach for a protein shake.

Eat little and often (4-6 times a day).

Drink plenty of water.

Carbs are best for breakfast or immediately after your workout.