The Bodybuilder's Nutrition Book

The best part I took away from this book is the knowledge gained from a body builder who has already tested a lot of the food theories on his own body so he can write from experience. It only tops it off that Franco went on to get his PHD in nutrition. This book is easy reading and gives you a good background and basis to work from when discovering your own nutritional needs for your body.

This book addresses the specific nutritional needs of a serious bodybuilder. The author, a two-time Mr. Olympia Winner, presents the most successful strategies and diet plans for achieving an outstanding physique. With this handy reference you will learn how the body utilizes the basic nutrients: proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, each one is discussed in detail. Armed with the most recognized and up-to-date information the book guides bodybuilders in developing a customized diet that matches his or her needs. The book also provides menus and meal plans that are geared to individual body types, exercises regimes, and levels of competitiveness.

I used this book to bulk up while losing over 50 lbs (from 225 to 165 lbs), and I maintained my strength. I did not follow the nutritional supplement advice, but did follow what to eat religiously. This is the best sports nutrition book, period. An Update (6 months after my original review above): OK, I stopped following his advice (high value protein) so religiously, and I gained back 12 pounds. That's how effective this book is. Cause and effect. Follow the book, lose weight and gain strength. Don't follow the advice, gain weight and lose strength.

As a natural healthcare practitioner, I often refer to several textbooks to update and review for the benefit of my patients. I have come to rely on Dr. Columbu's knowledge as it applies to athletes. Yet, there is a point to which all persons can benefit from just a little of his principles. Seldom will you find a book recommending that the specific enzyme-containing foods required for proper breakdown and assimilation of other vital substances. As to the comment that the information on the macronutrients and micronutrients being outdated and nothing new, I must respond by replying that I do not often encounter persons who have a working knowledge of what nutrients are responsible for certain functions and the consequences of deficiencies. And the information he provides is just as useful today as it was in the book's first printing. We could all use a bit of a refresher course from time to time on basic nutrition. Glad to see Dr. Columbu reiterating the value of such information.

This is the one book I found that helped me to understand the confusing world of nutrition and bodybuilding. I use this book as a reference and have read it cover to cover at least 6 times since I purchased it. This year I plan to make this book a gift to all my friends and family interested in the sport. Thank you Franco for your help and direction.