Bodybuilding for Vegetarians: Your Best Protein Sources

If you’re trying to change your body and get into your best shape yet, then you may be interested in the notion of bodybuilding for vegetarians. Many people tend to forget about the fact that just because you are a bodybuilder and you need high amounts of protein, doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t also be a vegetarian. The truth is that these days there are so many wonderful sources of protein that you can enjoy which are plant based. You don’t have to give up on your vegetarian lifestyle just to change your body in this way. Even better if you happen to be somebody who just wants to limit your meat you can also gain perspective from this as well.
The first step in bodybuilding for vegetarians is to consider the best plant based sources of protein. You can enjoy high concentrations of protein from sources such as chia seeds, quinoa, soy, and tofu. Of course many of these also contain other nutrients and fiber so they round out the list. You may also find that certain protein powders that you can enjoy in a smoothie before or after a workout are vegetarian friendly as well. Just take the time to research it and to plan for and prepare your meals and snacks accordingly. Eat smaller meals more frequently and be sure to always include a source of plant based protein at the core.
Look For Healthy Non-Meat Alternatives
Another step in effective bodybuilding for vegetarians is to focus on an entire category of foods that can be your best source of protein yet. This includes all beans and legumes. Eat beans of all kinds, seeds, nuts, nut butters, and everything else that you can imagine within this category and it is a broad one. Consider making the bean or legume the main feature of the meal or simply add it to a salad or soup. You can really get carried away with this category as there are so many options around and therefore you can sustain your protein needs and still stick to your healthy vegetarian lifestyle.
A final consideration in bodybuilding for vegetarians is to find healthy and appropriate substitutions for favorite dishes. If you eat eggs then use that to power up a meal. If you are vegan then find soy “meat” options that you can substitute into favorite dishes. Some vegetables even have substantial amounts of protein so feature them as you see fit. Where there’s a will there’s a way and you can enjoy great protein while bodybuilding and still maintain your vegetarian ways—you truly can have it all!