Most bodybuilders are aware of the fact that the key to helping muscles grow and recover following a tough workout is to flood the trained muscle group with nutrients - particularly amino acids. These amino acids come from protein we consume, which places protein consumption at the top of the priority list for bodybuilders. Here are a few tricks, which can assist you in making sure you get enough protein every day.
Buy big
Buy your protein in bulk, on one huge weekly or biweekly shopping trip. Not only will this result in you getting the best prices, but it will also mean you will have plenty of food on hand all week. Additionally, the time saved from avoiding 3 or 4 trips to the store each week can be spent training, cooking, or just plain resting!
Prepackaging works!
Pick up 10 or 12 small Tupperware containers. Cook big pots of food, and fill these Tupperware containers. It only takes a minute to toss the steak and rice into the microwave, and you're eating properly in no time. Keep an eye on expiration dates, and never eat cooked food that has been in the refrigerator more than three days. This usually means 2-3 weekly cooking sessions.
Shake it up
When you're on the road, protein shakes are usually comprised of two scoops of whey with bottled water, mixed in a shaker. But at home, you can move far beyond this simple mixture. Toss in some peanut butter, oatmeal, spices, ice cream, or other delicious foods to add much needed carbohydrates and fats, as well as to keep you sane as you chug down the same protein powder, day in and day out.
Start with these simple ideas, and find your own along the way. Remember, the goal is to consume your 300 to 400 grams of protein daily, consistently. Tips like these will make it easier to consume enough protein, but only you can provide the discipline and action to make it happen.
