Core Daily
Nutrition
Q & A: Supplements for Vegetarian Bodybuilders
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Q: Is it possible for me to be a vegetarian bodybuilder? What will I need to do to supplement? -- Matt, Altamonte Springs, FL
A: As a vegetarian, you probably already know that you will have to pay special attention to your diet to make sure you are getting the protein that you need, especially if you are trying to be a bodybuilder.
A few other considerations:
1. You may want to try using 6 grams of essential amino acids after your training sessions in conjunction with 35-70g grams of carbohydrates.
2. Since creatine is only found in animal products, vegetarians show lower levels of the organic acid. This presents a problem because creatine is useful in building the energy source used for those quick, intense bursts called upon while weight lifting. So consider supplementing with 5g of creatine a day.
3. Make sure to take some type of essential fatty acid supplement, calcium, and a multi-vitamin to make up for any other vitamins and minerals that might be lacking from a vegetarian diet.
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