National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The recommended eating frequency for a client aiming to stimulate muscle growth, particularly for physique competition, typically emphasizes more frequent meals. This approach can be beneficial for several reasons.

First, consuming meals more frequently allows for a consistent intake of the nutrients—particularly protein—that are crucial for muscle repair and growth. Spreading protein intake across multiple meals can enhance muscle protein synthesis, which is essential for building muscle mass. Research suggests that having around 20-30 grams of protein per meal, consumed multiple times throughout the day, can help maximize these benefits.

Additionally, more frequent meals can help maintain stable energy levels, which is particularly important during intensive training periods leading up to competition. This pattern of eating can also aid in better digestive health and can help in managing hunger levels, preventing excessive appetite swings that might lead to unhealthy food choices.

Overall, for someone focused on achieving physique goals through muscle growth, more frequent meal timings align well with the nutritional strategies that support muscular hypertrophy and performance.