A pound of fish can cost more than five dollars (the price is considerably higher for gourmet varieties), while chicken or lean ground beef can often be found for less. Preparation must also be considered. Most muscle heads, who eat five or six times a day, would rather alternate between shakes and easy-to-prepare protein meals, such as precooked chicken or sliced deli meats, than bother with preparing and broiling a fish filet.
The Benefits
Bodybuilders who steer away from seafood completely are missing the boat in the nutrition department. Fish offers many benefits, from easy-to-digest amino acids on par with whey protein to an array of minerals that support testosterone and thyroid functions. Incorporate fish into your bodybuilding diet more frequently to receive its nutritional benefits.
Slow Fish
The remaining meals of the day, including the last one before bedtime, are ideal for taking in slow-digesting proteins, which provide sustained release of amino acids. Slow-digesting proteins are thought to be superior in helping to maintain an anabolic state. A slow but constant influx of aminos along with calories helps your body remain in an anabolic state.
BEST BETS
Alaskan Cod
Alaskan Salmon (wild)
Arctic Char (farmed)
Black/Red
Grouper
Catfish
Tuna
Pacific Halibut
Pacific Albacore/Yellowfin Tuna
Pacific Sardines
Rainbow Trout (farmed)
Sablefish/Black Cod
STAY AWAY FROM
Atlantic Bluefin
Basa/Swai/Tra, often called catfish (imported)
Atlantic Cod
Atlantic Halibut
Atlantic Sardines
Grouper (imported)
Orange Roughy
Sharks
Snapper (imported)
Swordfish (imported)