It is widely believed that bodybuilders eat tons of meat for their required protein quota. Although the statement is true to some extent, it is not the only way to approach a bodybuilder’s beneficial diet plans. For the sport of bodybuilding, fitness regime, and dietary habits go hand in hand. While several bodybuilders from all eras have talked about the pros and cons of certain non-vegetarian food practices based on the amount of their intake, there’s yet another shocking practice that is getting more and more popular among bodybuilders: Veganism.

Abstaining from using animal products is certainly a good cause and its good for the environment. In addition to that, it has an underlying list of advantages that have been proven beneficial for fitness enthusiasts despite everyone’s disbelief. Veganism is often regarded as a lifestyle, it has a greater social message and a higher moral agenda. After the bodybuilding community started adopting the methods, they are shedding light on the nutritious value of this lifestyle which is often questioned by society.

Vegan diet for bodybuilders

It is a given that bodybuilders require a high protein intake and animal products are ample resources for the same. However, when it comes to an all-plant-based diet, bodybuilders and nutritionists can find a well-balanced diet through a bit of exploring. Among other things, seitan, tofu, legumes, and quinoa can be the highest sources of protein which in turn can help bodybuilders regulate their muscle buildup. With the advancement of technology, there are several vegan protein powder options that bodybuilders can have.

In terms of fat intake, bodybuilders are usually advised to keep their range somewhere between 0.5-1.5 grams per Kg per day. Fat intake not only provides energy and nutrients, but these are extremely important for muscle growth. Hence, bodybuilders should always aim for the right nutrients they require. The diet, however, must not be deficient in liquids. Due to the excessive intake of fiber, through vegan diets, bodybuilders would need a minimum of 1ml fluid per calorie they take in.

READ MORE: Despite Not Spending a Dime on His Newsletter’s Marketing, Arnold Schwarzenegger Offers to Pay $1000 to His Village Members for a Special Reason

However, why should a bodybuilder shift to Veganism? The various health benefits that Veganism promotes are largely out of sight. Yet, some who understand it are taking the leap.

Benefits of a vegan diet

Recently, the charts of heart attacks among intensive fitness enthusiasts have been breaking all records. Hence, the necessity to keep their heart in check should be prioritized. For bodybuilders, having a low saturated fat and less cholesterol can help prevent such accidents. Vegan diets usually are high in fiber and have low quantities of the mentioned elements. Hence, following a vegan diet can partially reduce the chances of getting a heart attack. Moreover, it also keeps the blood pressure in check.

Besides the well-being of one’s heart, a Vegan diet can also help maintain a desired body weight. Evidently, for bodybuilders, weight becomes a crucial factor in the profession. With an all-plant-based diet, the chance of losing weight becomes higher. It also helps in reducing the probability of getting cancers, specifically, colon and breast cancers. It happens because of the well-regulated BMIs among vegan diet practitioners.

READ MORE: “Had To Carry My Father’s Pain”: Lou Ferrigno Opens Up About Bitter Parallels With Arnold Schwarzenegger 46 Years After Starring in Pumping Iron

Shocking as it is, Arnold Schwarzenegger, one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time has turned 80% vegan himself. Arnie is an animal lover and believes the planet is for all life to enjoy. His practice speaks for the advantages of having such a diet in a field that requires extreme amounts of nutrition.

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Vegan Practices

In one of his Newsletters, Arnold Schwarzenegger revealed how he reduced his cholesterol level. He confessed to shifting to 80% Vegan, all-plant-based meals. The former bodybuilder once talked about how he does not believe in the most common misconception. Hence in one interview, he stated, “I stay away more from the meats and more from animal products, and animal proteins, because there was this misconception that that’s the only way you get big and strong, so now I back off that and I feel much better.”

Arnold Schwarzenegger once disclosed how after adopting Veganism, his health had gotten better. In his Newsletter he stated, “My bad cholesterol number is so low that my doctor thought I might be a different person.” But on top of this, Schwarzenegger is also an animal lover. With several animals as pets, the bodybuilder has also talked about how he keeps his animal’s health in check as well.

Watch This Story: Arnold Schwarzenegger Shares an Ultimate Four-Worded Fitness Advice

Schwarzenegger’s conversion to Veganism has truly got rid of various misconceptions about the diet. It has not only made the community more open to the prospect of all-plant-based meals, but it has also raised awareness among people. Do you think you would prefer a Vegan diet yourself? Let us know in the comments below.