# 6 Foods That Help Increase Muscle Mass and Support Strength
Building muscle takes more than simply eating extra protein. Consistent resistance training, enough total calories, adequate protein, carbohydrates for training energy, healthy fats, sleep, and recovery all work together.
Food
If your goal is to increase muscle mass, choosing nutrient-dense foods can make the process easier. The best options provide high-quality protein along with vitamins, minerals, and enough energy to support training and recovery.
Here are six food groups that can play an important role in a muscle-building diet.
Anatomy
## Why Nutrition Matters for Muscle Growth
Muscle tissue is constantly being broken down and rebuilt. Resistance exercise stimulates this process, while dietary protein supplies the amino acids needed to repair and build new muscle proteins.
For muscle gain, most people also need enough total energy. If you consistently eat fewer calories than your body uses, maximizing muscle growth becomes more difficult.
