Fitness and Nutrition
hey! i've been following you for a while now because i'm into nutrition as well and i think you're a great inspiration. But i'm having a little problem. I'm approx.123lbs and 5' 4", and have been going to the gym for 3 weeks now trying add and maintain at least 8lbs of muscle but i can't find the right diet to add bulk. I'm not into the whole protein shake thing, so i'd rather go "natural'. Can you give me some suggestions?

Hello,

Thank you! I’m glad I can inspire you. 

Keep in mind protein intake is only one aspect of adding muscle; ultimately you will want to take a look at your overall calorie intake as well. Many times calorie intake being too low is a big limiting factor in size gains. Other factors could include how often you are training or the intensity of your training. If you are training for long periods then you might be able to turn up the intensity and drop the duration of your training session. It is imperative that workout intensity is high which will in turn set forth the cascade of events that help lead to growth. 

As for protein sources, one should not rely strictly on shakes. Protein shakes happen to be ideal sources at specific times, including post workout, but plenty of nutritious food sources should be consumed throughout the day. Limiting a shake to post workout at bare minimum then working hard to ingest food sources such as chicken, turkey, beef, beans, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, fish eggs, nuts, dairy, etc., might be a wise choice for you.

One last note- you have only been going to the gym for 3 weeks, which is not much time. Progress takes dedication and time. Continue working hard day in and day out, and I promise results will come.

I hope this helps. Please let me know if you have further questions! 

  1. davidlamb posted this