Diet for Bodybuilding Cuts

Bodybuilders lose all the fat they can before a bodybuilding competition in order to show off their muscles. Effective diets leave a bodybuilding looking like there is little between his skin and his muscles. He looks like a carved statue, hence, the term cut. Here are some of the techniques that bodybuilders use to get that cut look.

Eat More Frequently

Instead of three meals a day, eat six times a day, but in smaller portions. This means you'll be eating something every two to three hours. This allows your blood sugar to keep from spiking and it minimizes any cravings, which can lead to overeating. You'll find you have more energy and your muscles will have a constant source of protein with which to repair themselves.

Get the Right Amount of Protein

Each day, your body needs 1.2 grams of protein per pound of body weight to maintain your weight. If you are trying to increase your muscle mass, you will need closer to 2 grams per pound. Divide your daily protein needs by six to get the amount you need to eat at each meal. Then select lean meats like chicken, turkey and white fish to be source of the protein. Other possible sources can be skim milk, egg whites and protein powder. No more than two of your meals each day should be liquid.

Get the Right Type of Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are your body's main fuel source. Multiply your lean bodyweight by 0.8 to get the number of carbohydrates you need each day. One third of this amount should be part of your first meal of the day to jump-start your metabolism. The other two-thirds should be consumed with the meal before and after your workout to ensure your body has the energy for an effective workout. Low-glycemic carbohydrates are the best choice, except for your post-workout meal, when high-glycemic carbohydrate sources are preferable.

Don't Forget Your Vegetables

High-fiber vegetables help control your appetite and increase your protein absorption. Vegetables also have plenty of vitamins and minerals that your body needs. Eat as many leafy green vegetables as you want. The benefits outweigh any calories they might contain.

Careful With Fats

While fats are necessary in a diet, make sure you are consuming the necessary fats. Fats will help you maintain your energy and keep your body from acting as if you are starving. Fats can be taken as a supplement. Two that can be taken are fish oil and flaxseed oil. Both of these are beneficial for your body if taken in moderation.

Water

Your body is mostly water. So if you want your muscles to appear large, keep them hydrated. Water will also keep you feeling full which will reduce food cravings.

Exercise

No bodybuilding diet can truly be effective without working out. Bodybuilders increase their workout times and frequency as contests approach. It helps your body burn more calories to ensure that cut look. It also uses the nutrients you are working so hard to balance in your diet.