Eggs are a staple in any serious bodybuilder’s diet. The humble egg is well known as a fantastic source of protein; in fact, egg protein is so valuable that it is known as a ‘complete’ protein, which includes all the vital amino acids needed for muscle building. Egg protein is widely known as the standard by which all other types of protein are judged.

With 6 grams of protein per egg white, eggs are considered one of the cheapest protein sources available. Add this to the quality of protein within them, and you’ve got yourself a great deal! They are also loaded with important vitamins. You can expect to get vitamins A, E, and K, as well as small amounts of B12, by including this wonderful food in your diet.

When talking about the inclusion of high amounts of eggs in the diet, the concern about high amounts of cholesterol always arises. This, of course, can be avoided by simply removing the yolks from the eggs. However, there are newer studies available that suggest that egg yolks do not, in fact, increase cholesterol levels, making the above claims a myth. Personally, I’m not too worried.

Rocky popularized swallowing raw eggs: the image of Sly Stallone training hard to become a champion has inspired many bodybuilders. However, swallowing raw eggs can be very dangerous for your system! Cooking eggs kills salmonella bacteria and is definitely the smartest idea! Not only this, your body will actually absorb more protein from eating cooked eggs, rather than raw eggs.

Eggs are definitely something you want to eat to gain muscle. In fact, legendary bodybuilder and trainer Vince Gironda has been quoted as saying that “eating 36 eggs a day is like taking a light cycle of Dianabol”, a powerful steroid! In any case, the power of the humble egg is hard to deny. Find them a place in your diet, as they can certainly contribute to your muscle gains.