When you think about a bodybuilder, you probably picture a bulky, vein-popping person who drinks protein shakes all day. You probably see them as meat eaters who spend more time at the gym than a person should.

It is okay to have that thought in your head; many bodybuilders are just that; however, just as veganism has started to spread and become more popular diet-wise, vegan bodybuilding is started to turn some heads as well. Vegan bodybuilders can complete with all of the other people. When a competitor finds out that a bodybuilder is vegan, they usually look surprised, but when a vegan wins a championship, heads start turning.

Most of the people are baffled more than they are impressed. They don’t understand how a vegan could be stronger than a carnivore. They don’t understand that vegans are just like any other competitor (minus the plant-based diet component).

Many bodybuilders are vegan because of environmental reasons, but the majority are vegan for health reasons. A bodybuilder’s diet has always consisted of a diet that is low in carbohydrates, but high in protein and calories–veganism allows for this. There are plenty of nuts, vegetables, and more that offer the critical ingredients. Protein is found in nearly all foods, and they are abundant in seeds, nuts, legumes, fruits, vegetables and other plant-based foods; however, if that is not enough, some vegans do choose to get a plant-based protein powder.

One recommended protein powder is hemp. Hemp is rich in protein, fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and chlorophyll. Plant-based foods can get you to the necessary levels.

If you do plan on trying out a vegan diet, it is important to keep in mind that a high protein diet can wear down your liver and kidneys. Drink a lot of water!

One famous vegan bodybuilder is Robert Cheeke. He is a competitive bodybuilder and the 2005 INBA Northwestern USA Natural Bodybuilding Overall Novice Champion. He actually founded the Vegan Bodybuilding & Fitness company.