Almonds are great for building lean muscle because they contain a little protein, and tons of heart healthy monounsaturated fats which actually lower your body circumference in the right portion amounts, which are about 1/4 cup almonds per day. Almonds are a top source of Vitamin E, fiber, and magnesium, so they are full of nutrients that aid in muscle repair and also heart health. Magnesium is a power nutrient that helps relax you, repair your muscles, and give you energy, while also keeping you relaxed. Almonds are a perfect snack for the afternoon when you want something crunchy besides raw veggies. Try eating about 1/4 cup with some yogurt, carrot sticks, or all by themselves. They will keep you full until dinner and also keep your mood stable due to the healthy fats. Healthy fats like those in almonds, olive oil, coconut oil, and walnuts have all been linked to a smaller waistline and overall faster metabolism, which is essential for building lean muscle that burns fat. You can also opt for natural, raw almond butter, which is really yummy on just about anything. Just keep it at 2 tbsp. for portion control. While I don’t want to look like a bodybuilder or starve myself to look fit, I also want to be able to eat in a way that does half the work for me. These foods definitely do that and keep me satisfied too. You don’t have to live off chicken breasts and brown rice to be healthy and fit. Try using some of these foods in place of ones you’re already eating and you’ll notice leaner muscles in no time! Do you like any of these foods to build lean muscle? Sources: bodybuilding.com prevention.com webmd.com