Publisher's Synopsis
Bodybuilding doesn't have a one-size-fits-all nutrition plan that athletes need to follow. However, most bodybuilding nutrition programs combine a calorie counting diet with the macro diet (also known as the 'If It Fits Your Macros' or 'IFYM' diet), a bodybuilding prep nutritionist with The Diet Doc with nutrition certifications from Precision Nutrition and the National Academy of Metabolic Sciences.Calorie counting requires tracking your calories so that you keep close tabs on exactly how much you're eating each day. Counting macronutrients (macros for short) is about making sure a certain percentage of your total calories come from each of the three macronutrients: protein, carbohydrates, and fat."The exact percentage of macros will vary person to person, but most programs require a high percentage of carbs, a moderate percentage of protein, and a low to moderate percentage of fat," explains Evan Eaton, a nutrition expert with Nutrishop in Boca Raton, Florida.Sound complicated? That's why most athletes hire a coach or nutritionist to help them figure out what their calorie count and macronutrient breakdown should be throughout all stages of prep, says bodybuilder Natalie Matthews, IFBB Bikini Pro and founder of Fit Vegan Chef.ICYDK, most bodybuilders follow "bulking" and "cutting" seasons, during which they're more focused on building muscle (and usually eating extra calories) or losing fat (usually cutting calories). Some coaches also recommend nutrient timing, which is when you strategically consume carbs to help energize pre-workout or replenish glycogen stores post-workout.That said, it is possible to DIY. So, if you're looking to do your own bodybuilding meal prep and nutrition, get ready to roll up your sleeves.
