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Healthy snack diet plan for muscle gain

Building muscle isn't just about hitting the gym—what you eat matters, too. This snack plan is designed for those looking to boost their protein intake and fuel their workouts. Discover snacks that help you build strength and recover faster, without feeling like you’re eating the same thing over and over again.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Almonds
  • Greek yogurt
  • Cottage cheese
  • Apples
  • Blueberries
  • Carrots
  • Hummus
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Protein powder
  • Oats
  • Celery

  • Peanut butter
  • Bananas
  • Strawberries
  • Chickpeas
  • Spinach
  • Walnuts
  • Quinoa
  • Tuna
  • Chicken breast
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Bell peppers

  • Edamame
  • Avocado
  • Turkey slices
  • Cucumber
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Black beans
  • Raspberries
  • Whole grain bread
  • Sunflower seeds
  • Mixed nuts
  • Dark chocolate

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Article Reviewed
• Written by Zuzanna Kędziora
• Published on June 16, 2024.
• Updated on August 8, 2024.

Diet plan overview

A healthy snack diet plan for muscle gain focuses on protein-rich snacks to support muscle repair and growth. Consider snacks like Greek yogurt with nuts, protein shakes, or a hard-boiled egg. These options provide the necessary protein and healthy fats needed to build and maintain muscle mass.

Adding complex carbs is also important, so try whole-grain crackers with a spread of almond butter or a banana. Keeping a balance of protein and carbs helps replenish energy and supports muscle recovery after workouts. Stay consistent with high-protein snacks to maximize your muscle gain efforts.

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Foods to eat

  • Lean Protein: Chicken breast, turkey slices, and lean beef jerky for muscle repair and growth.
  • Greek Yogurt: High in protein and perfect for a post-workout snack.
  • Nut Butters: Almond butter, peanut butter, and cashew butter for healthy fats and protein.
  • Protein Shakes: Made with whey or plant-based protein powder for a quick and easy boost.
  • Hard-Boiled Eggs: Packed with protein and easy to prepare in advance.
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A healthy diet can give you more energy and help you feel good today. Making poor dietary choices—eating too much of the wrong kinds of food and too little of the right kinds, or too much food altogether—can send you in the other direction (...)

Walter C. Willett, M.D., Dr. P.H.

Foods not to eat

  • Low-Protein Snacks: Chips, pretzels, and rice cakes, which do not provide enough protein for muscle building.
  • Sugary Snacks: Candy, sweets, and baked goods that can add empty calories.
  • Sugary Drinks: Soda, sweetened coffee, and energy drinks that can lead to fat gain rather than muscle.
  • High-Sodium Foods: Processed meats and salted nuts, which can lead to bloating.
  • Alcohol: Can interfere with muscle recovery and add unnecessary calories.

Main benefits

Implementing a healthy snack diet plan for muscle gain can help maintain muscle protein synthesis throughout the day, supporting muscle growth. This diet can also enhance muscle recovery by providing essential nutrients needed post-exercise. It may prevent muscle catabolism by supplying steady protein sources between meals. Additionally, it can boost energy levels for more effective workouts.

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📊 50% of Americans said they follow a specific diet or eating pattern (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

Focus on affordable protein sources like boiled eggs and Greek yogurt. These can be cheaper than protein bars and provide the nutrients you need. Nuts and seeds bought in bulk also make great, cost-effective muscle-building snacks.

Canned fish like tuna or salmon can be a wallet-friendly protein option. For variety, look for sales on lean meats or plant-based protein sources and freeze portions to stretch your budget further.

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Healthy Snack Diet Plan for Muscle Gain

  • Snack 1: Greek Yogurt with Strawberries and Almonds

Calories: 250  Fat: 12g   Carbs: 20g   Protein: 18g

  • Snack 2: Cottage Cheese with Pineapple and Walnuts

Calories: 280  Fat: 15g   Carbs: 15g   Protein: 22g

  • Snack 3: Hard-boiled Egg with Carrot Sticks and Hummus

Calories: 180  Fat: 10g   Carbs: 12g   Protein: 12g

  • Snack 4: Apple Slices with Peanut Butter

Calories: 200  Fat: 10g   Carbs: 25g   Protein: 5g

  • Snack 5: Tuna Salad with Cucumber Slices

Calories: 220  Fat: 8g   Carbs: 10g   Protein: 30g

  • Snack 6: Banana with Mixed Nuts

Calories: 280  Fat: 15g   Carbs: 30g   Protein: 8g

  • Snack 7: Greek Yogurt with Raspberries and Sunflower Seeds

Calories: 240  Fat: 12g   Carbs: 20g   Protein: 15g

  • Snack 8: Celery Sticks with Hummus and Turkey Slices

Calories: 200  Fat: 8g   Carbs: 10g   Protein: 20g

  • Snack 9: Edamame with Sea Salt

Calories: 150  Fat: 6g   Carbs: 10g   Protein: 14g

  • Snack 10: Cottage Cheese with Sliced Strawberries and Almonds

Calories: 270  Fat: 14g   Carbs: 15g   Protein: 20g

  • Snack 11: Chickpea Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach

Calories: 230  Fat: 8g   Carbs: 35g   Protein: 10g

  • Snack 12: Black Bean Dip with Bell Pepper Strips

Calories: 180  Fat: 5g   Carbs: 25g   Protein: 10g

  • Snack 13: Quinoa Salad with Avocado and Cherry Tomatoes

Calories: 300  Fat: 15g   Carbs: 30g   Protein: 10g

  • Snack 14: Mozzarella Cheese with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil

Calories: 220  Fat: 15g   Carbs: 5g   Protein: 15g

These nutritional values are approximate and can vary slightly based on specific portion sizes and preparation methods.

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

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⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.