Nimai Delgado, a name synonymous with plant-based power and excellence in the world of bodybuilding, has captivated fitness enthusiasts with his remarkable journey. In this article, we delve into the life, principles, and dietary choices that have made Nimai Delgado an IFBB Pro and an advocate for the vegan lifestyle.
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Early Life and Roots
Nimai Delgado’s unique journey began in Mississippi, where he was raised by Argentinian-immigrant Hare Krishna parents. From birth, he embraced a vegetarian lifestyle, initially driven by religious beliefs. Nimai’s upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of compassion for all living beings.
Growing up in the heart of southern Mississippi, Nimai faced challenges. His religious and cultural background, along with his dietary choices, set him apart from the mainstream. However, he remained resolute in his beliefs, a trait that continues to define him today.
Turning Vegan
In 2015, Nimai took a significant step in his dietary journey by going entirely vegan. This transition involved eliminating dairy, eggs, and all other animal products from his diet. While some might assume that this shift would hinder his progress as a bodybuilder, it did precisely the opposite.
The transition was relatively smooth for Nimai, with the exception of cheese on pizza – a guilty pleasure he could no longer indulge in. However, he quickly adapted to his new lifestyle, embracing vegan alternatives and continuing his rigorous training regimen.
Nimai’s decision to go vegan was rooted in a desire for optimal health and a commitment to a diet based on unprocessed, plant-based foods. He also sought to raise awareness of the health and environmental benefits associated with the vegan lifestyle.
Spreading Awareness and Challenging Stereotypes
Nimai Delgado has not only embraced a vegan lifestyle but has also become an advocate for it. He aims to show that it is possible to attain peak physical condition and compete with elite athletes while living as a vegan.
One of Nimai’s key goals is to debunk the myth that vegans are inherently protein-deficient and incapable of building muscle. His journey stands as living proof of what a diet without animal products can achieve.
Beyond his physique, Nimai has launched the website veganfitness.com, hosts the podcast “Generation V” where he interviews plant-based athletes and advocates, and organizes fitness and lifestyle retreats worldwide. All of this is in addition to his career as a professional bodybuilder and social media influencer.
Achievements in Bodybuilding
Nimai Delgado’s commitment to bodybuilding has led to numerous titles and accolades. In his first year of competing, he achieved several notable victories, including the NPC USA Championships, which granted him a Pro card with the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB).
His accomplishments include placements in prestigious competitions such as the Europa Orlando Men’s Physique and the Arnold’s Men’s Physique. Nimai’s journey was even featured on the cover of Muscle & Fitness, along with a detailed article about bodybuilding as a vegan.
Training Philosophy
Nimai employs a training philosophy that combines high volume with heavy weights to induce significant muscle hypertrophy when aiming for size. However, as he prepares for bodybuilding contests, he adjusts his training routine to reduce volume and weight to avoid muscle injuries.
Nutrition Insights
Nimai’s nutritional approach focuses on the consumption of whole, unprocessed plant-based foods. He emphasizes the importance of micronutrients, countering the common bodybuilding emphasis on macronutrients. His diet includes foods like oatmeal, fruit, avocado toast, broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, spinach, kale, lentils, and seeds.
Addressing concerns about soy and hormones, Nimai firmly believes that soy is harmless for men’s hormones and is an excellent source of plant-based protein. He even highlights that soy has shown to decrease the likelihood of certain types of cancer in men.
During cutting phases for competitions, Nimai follows a meal plan that includes six meals, each with specific macro ratios: 35 grams of protein, 15 grams of carbs, and 11 grams of fat. These ratios may slightly vary per meal, as long as the overall daily intake aligns with his goals.
Nimai’s Favorite Vegan Dish
Nimai’s favorite vegan meal is a simple yet satisfying avocado toast. This energizing breakfast includes a whole avocado, two slices of toasted whole-grain bread, two slices of tomato, a dash of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of oregano.
Lessons from Nimai Delgado
Nimai Delgado’s journey teaches us that success doesn’t require conforming to the norm. He continues to challenge stereotypes and pave the way for a new generation of athletes who embrace compassion and a plant-based lifestyle.
Nimai’s ambitions extend beyond bodybuilding; he aspires to be the first male vegan to compete in Mr. Olympia, the pinnacle of bodybuilding competitions. His journey exemplifies the importance of staying true to oneself, focusing on individual paths, and inspiring positive change.
In the words of Nimai Delgado, “You can be an athlete and only eat plants and just save lives.”
For more information about Nimai Delgado and his journey, visit Nimai’s website.