Diet Tips for Six Pack Abs

There is significant difference between ubiquitous fat loss diets and diet for building six pack abs. While the common fat loss diets help to accelerate weight loss, they may not help in growing muscles. The goal of a diet specifically formulated for building muscles is to meet the increased calorie requirement of the body while lowering the level of body fat.

Diet Tips for Six Pack Abs

Carbohydrate
Carbohydrate is the main energy source of the body. Your muscles will utilize carbohydrates for meeting their energy requirement during workouts. More than half of the daily calorie requirement of a bodybuilder comes from carbohydrates. However, eat only complex carbohydrates. The slow digestion rate of complex carbohydrate helps to control the insulin levels and curbs hunger. However, a high complex carbohydrate diet, because of its high fiber content, may cause flatulence and bloating. To avert abdominal discomfort and bloating during workouts, limit intake of carbohydrate rich foods before workouts. A bodybuilding diet should contain sufficient whole grain products and fresh fruits and vegetables other than starchy vegetables. 

Protein
To build six pack abs, you will need 1 to 1.5 grams of protein per pound of your body weight. As you start losing fat, your body may start utilizing protein as fuel. To prevent loss of lean muscle mass, it is advisable to consume extra protein. To meet the protein requirement of your body add lean meat, poultry and low fat dairy to your daily diet.

Fat
A small amount of fat is sufficient for maintaining the various functions of the body. The optimal fat requirement can be met by consuming olive oil, avocados and fatty fish. To get a rough estimate about the amount of healthy fat you need daily, multiply your body weight by 0.2, this many grams of fats can be included in your low fat diet.

Eat Small Meals
Depending upon your hunger level, eat four to six small meals throughout the day. Remember to eat a protein rich snack before and after workouts.