For some people, gaining weight or adding muscle can be just as difficult as losing weight for others.
However, simply adding certain foods to your diet can make your weight gain efforts both healthy and more effective.
Here are 5 of the best foods to help you gain weight or add muscle, the healthy way.
* Protein SmoothiesDrinking homemade protein smoothies can be a highly nutritious and quick way to gain weight. Making your own smoothies is the best way since commercial versions are often full of sugar and lack nutrients. It also gives you full control over the flavor and nutrient content.
* MilkMilk has been used as a weight gainer or muscle builder for decades.It provides a good balance of proteins, carbs and fats and is a good source of calcium, as well as other vitamins and minerals.
* Rice
Rice is a convenient, low-cost carb source to help you gain weight. Just 1 cup (165 grams) of cooked rice provides 190 calories, 43 grams of carbs and very little fat. It is also fairly calorie-dense, meaning you can easily obtain a high amount of carbs and calories from a single serving. This helps you eat more food, especially if you have a poor appetite or get full quickly.
* Nuts and Nut ButtersNuts and nut butters are a perfect choice if you're looking to gain weight.Just one small handful of almonds contains over 7 grams of protein and 18 grams of healthy fats.Since they’re very calorie-dense, just two handfuls per day with a meal or as a snack can quickly add hundreds of calories.
* Red MeatsRed meats are probably one of the best muscle-building foods available.For example, steak contains around 3 grams of leucine per 6 ounces (170 grams). Leucine is the key amino acid your body needs to stimulate muscle protein synthesis and add new muscle tissue.