Bodybuilding is very much a lifestyle as opposed to a hobby or pastime. To get the most from our bodybuilding regimes we must ensure that we eat, sleep, live, and breathe for the sport. If you thought that the only hard work required was that which took place in the gym, then you would be very much mistaken. In reality, the hardest part of being a bodybuilder is making sure your diet is on point. Vitamins and minerals play crucial roles in our everyday health and well-being, but are you getting enough? Probably not, which is why we’ve compiled this article today. Below, we’re going to be looking at some of the most important vitamins and minerals for bodybuilding, and health and wellness in general.
Vitamin C – First and foremost we’ll start with arguably the most common and popular vitamin of all. Yes, we’re talking about vitamin C. Vitamin C, or Ascorbic acid as it is also known, is a very important vitamin that has antioxidant-like properties and plays an essential role in numerous aspects of health and fitness. Vitamin C strengthens the immune system, which in turn helps to protect us against illness and disease. As far as bodybuilding goes, vitamin C is important as it has been found to speed up the metabolization of fat, meaning it can help you get leaner. This vitamin is water-soluble, is found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, and is arguably the most popular vitamin supplement.
Vitamin D – Vitamin D is sometimes known as the sunshine vitamin. This is because, when we are exposed to sunlight, our bodies can naturally synthesize this very vitamin. Primarily vitamin D helps the body to absorb calcium and phosphorus, though it also regulates your mood and can boost your energy levels too. Vitamin D is therefore very beneficial for people looking to strengthen and protect their bones.
Calcium – Calcium is a mineral which is absorbed by the bones via vitamin D, which helps to strengthen them and make them tougher and stronger. Calcium for bodybuilding however, is also very important as it ensures that optimal muscle contractions can take place. It is worth noting that calcium must be supplemented with vitamin D, otherwise it cannot be absorbed via the bones, so it would basically be rendered useless as it would simply go to waste. Calcium supplements are popular, though you can also find this mineral in milk and other dairy produce, along with some green leafy veggies such as spinach.
Iron – Iron is not just something you pump in the gym when you want to make gains. Iron is also another important mineral. Iron facilitates the transportation of oxygen in the body and to the muscles. The cells in your muscles need oxygen for energy, so obviously the more oxygen they can absorb the more energy your muscles will have. Iron also helps to prevent anaemia, which can leave you feeling tired and fatigued which is obviously not practical for somebody looking to train in the gym several days per week. As well as coming in supplement form, iron is also found in red meat, fish, and green leafy veggies.
