Great Diets for Bodybuilders

Bodybuilders sometimes have trouble gaining muscle as they work out. Rigorous training routines boost the metabolism and burn energy -- changing a bodybuilder's nutritional needs. A balanced bodybuilding diet helps bodybuilders increase muscle mass by focusing on the foods that aid the healthy increase of muscle and the loss of fat.

Hydration

• Adequate water consumption is an important part of any diet. Dehydration while eating a protein-rich diet can cause kidney damage. Avoid these dangers by discussing the use of any protein supplements with a doctor, and drinking at least eight glasses of water daily. While working out, drink water every ten minutes to remain hydrated.

Carbohydrates

• Complex carbohydrates are 50 percent of most bodybuilding diets. Carbohydrates increase energy and speed muscle regeneration. The best carbohydrates to consume while bodybuilding are pastas, cereals, bread, beans and carbohydrate-rich vegetables such as corn. Avoid diets that encourage the use of simple carbohydrates found in sports drinks. Simple carbohydrates contain sugars and do not provide lasting energy.

Protein

• Protein helps speed the recovery of muscles following a workout, and it helps avoid muscle damage. Consuming protein also speeds the metabolism, helping to burn fat. Include lean meats, fish, eggs and tofu for a natural way to add protein to a diet. Fish also provides healthy, essential fats that are needed in any healthy diet. Protein shakes and supplements are also available.

Calories

• Gaining muscle causes a bodybuilder to burn more calories each day. To maintain current weight and gain additional muscle, a bodybuilder must stick to a high-calorie diet. Bodybuilding diets suggest up to 5,500 calories daily for men, and no more than 3,000 calories daily for women. If a bodybuilder has trouble eating enough calories each day, creating a six-meal-per-day plan can help with calorie-counting.