Are you struggling to put on weight and build muscle despite your best efforts at the gym? Adding a high-quality protein powder to your diet could be the game-changer you need.
But with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which one to choose. We have compiled this article on the best protein powders for weight gain.
Whether you are a fitness enthusiast or just starting, we will help you navigate the world of protein supplements and find the perfect one to help you reach your goals.
So, let’s prepare to pack on some muscle and start seeing the results you’ve been working so hard for.
What Are Mass Gainer Protein Powders?
Mass gainer protein powders are dietary supplements designed to help individuals gain weight, particularly in muscle mass.
They typically contain a blend of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and additional vitamins and minerals to provide a calorie-dense and nutrient-rich source of nutrition.
While traditional protein powders focus mainly on delivering protein for muscle growth and recovery, mass gainer powders go a step further by providing high calories to support weight gain.
This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle to consume enough calories from their regular diet alone or who have a fast metabolism that burns through calories quickly.
However, it is important to note that mass gainer protein powders should be used with a well-rounded diet and regular exercise routine to ensure the weight gained is primarily muscle mass rather than fat.
Additionally, individuals with certain health conditions or allergies should consult a healthcare professional before adding a mass gainer protein powder to their diet.
How Do Mass Gainers Work?
Mass gainers work by providing a calorie-dense source of nutrition that can help individuals consume more calories than they burn, which is essential for weight gain.
They typically contain a blend of macronutrients such as protein, carbohydrates, fats, and additional vitamins and minerals to support overall health.
The protein in mass gainers helps to promote muscle protein synthesis, which is the process of building new muscle tissue in response to exercise.
Mass gainers can help support muscle growth and recovery by providing a high amount of protein.
Carbohydrates in mass gainers provide the body with the energy necessary for performing physical activities and supporting muscle growth.
The high-carb content in mass gainers also helps replenish glycogen stores in the muscles, which can deplete after a workout.
Finally, the fat content in mass gainers provides a concentrated source of calories, which can help individuals reach their daily calorie goals more easily.
However, it is important to note that not all fats are created equal, and choosing a mass gainer that contains healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids are essential.
Do I Need A Mass Gainer Over or Under 1,000 Calories?
Whether or not you need a mass gainer that provides over or under 1,000 calories depends on your individual caloric needs and goals.
If you struggle to consume enough calories from your regular diet alone and want to gain weight, a mass gainer that provides over 1,000 calories per serving may be a good option.
These mass gainers typically contain a higher amount of carbohydrates, fats, and protein to help you meet your daily calorie needs and support weight gain.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a more moderate calorie supplement or have a lower calorie goal, a mass gainer that provides under 1,000 calories per serving may be more appropriate for you.
These mass gainers may contain a lower amount of carbohydrates and fats and may be higher in protein to support muscle growth and recovery.
How to Choose the Best Protein Powders for Weight Gain?
The process of selecting the best protein powders for weight gain involved extensive research and analysis of various factors, including the quality and composition of the ingredients, customer reviews and feedback, brand reputation, and overall effectiveness in supporting weight gain.
To begin with, we researched and identified a broad range of protein powders specifically designed for weight gain.
We then evaluated each product based on its nutritional composition, looking for protein powders that balance macronutrients, including high-quality protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats, to support muscle growth and recovery.
We also considered the overall quality of the ingredients used, including whether the protein was sourced from high-quality sources such as grass-fed whey or plant-based sources and whether the product was free from harmful additives, fillers, and artificial flavors.
Next, we analyzed customer reviews and feedback from verified buyers to gain insights into the real-world effectiveness of each protein powder.
We looked for products that consistently received positive feedback, with customers reporting noticeable improvements in their weight gain and muscle-building goals.
Finally, we considered each brand’s reputation and track record in the health and fitness industry, including their commitment to transparency and quality control.
We only included protein powders from reputable and trustworthy brands with a proven history of producing high-quality supplements.
1. Transparent Labs Mass Gainer
Transparent Labs Mass Gainer is a protein powder designed to help individuals gain weight and build muscle. It is made with clean, high-quality ingredients and is backed by positive customer feedback.
Pros:
- Made with clean, high-quality ingredients
- Contains grass-fed whey protein
- Comprehensive vitamin and mineral blend
- Positive customer feedback
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other mass gainers
- Higher calorie count per serving
2. True Athlete Natural Gainer
True Athlete Natural Gainer is a protein powder that supports weight gain and muscle growth with a blend of high-quality ingredients, including grass-fed whey protein and organic complex carbohydrates.
It is designed to be free from artificial flavors, sweeteners, and colors, making it a healthier option for those who avoid processed ingredients.
Pros:
- Made with high-quality ingredients, including grass-fed whey protein and organic complex carbohydrates
- Free from artificial flavors, sweeteners, and colors
Cons:
- Contains a lower calorie count per serving compared to some other mass gainers
- May not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies, as it contains whey protein.
3. Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer
Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer is a protein powder with a high-calorie blend of macronutrients to support weight gain and muscle growth.
Its formula contains clean, natural ingredients, including grass-fed whey protein, organic coconut sugar, and whole food sources of carbohydrates and fats.
Pros:
- Made with clean, natural ingredients
- Provides a high-calorie blend of macronutrients to support weight gain and muscle growth
Cons:
- Contains a higher sugar content than some other mass gainers
- May not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies, as it contains whey protein
4.Universal Real Gains Weight Gainer
Universal Real Gains Weight Gainer is a protein powder that provides a high-calorie blend of macronutrients to support weight gain and muscle growth.
Its formula includes a mix of proteins, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and a comprehensive vitamin and mineral blend to support overall health and well-being.
Pros:
- Provides a high-calorie blend of macronutrients to support weight gain and muscle growth
- Includes a comprehensive vitamin and mineral blend to support overall health and wellbeing
Cons:
- Contains artificial flavors and sweeteners
- May not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies, as it contains whey protein.
5. Optimum Nutrition Pro Gainer
Optimum Nutrition Pro Gainer is a protein powder with a high-calorie blend of macronutrients to support weight gain and muscle growth.
Its formula includes a mix of proteins, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and digestive enzymes to enhance nutrient absorption and reduce digestive discomfort.
Pros:
- Provides a high-calorie blend of macronutrients to support weight gain and muscle growth
- Includes digestive enzymes to enhance nutrient absorption and reduce digestive discomfort
Cons:
- Contains artificial flavors and sweeteners
- May not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies, as it contains whey protein.
6. Musclemeds Carnivor Mass
Musclemeds Carnivor Mass is a protein powder that provides a high-calorie blend of macronutrients to support weight gain and muscle growth.
Its formula is unique because it is made from beef protein isolate, which is highly bioavailable and free from lactose and other common allergens.
Pros:
- Made with beef protein isolate, a highly bioavailable and allergen-free protein source
- Provides a high-calorie blend of macronutrients to support weight gain and muscle growth
Cons:
- Contains artificial flavors and sweeteners
- May not be suitable for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet
7. Iron Vegan Athlete’s Gainer
Iron Vegan Athlete’s Gainer is a vegan protein powder with a high-calorie blend of macronutrients to support weight gain and muscle growth.
Its formula includes a mix of plant-based proteins, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and a comprehensive vitamin and mineral blend to support overall health and well-being.
Pros:
- Provides a vegan-friendly high-calorie blend of macronutrients to support weight gain and muscle growth
- Includes a comprehensive vitamin and mineral blend to support overall health and wellbeing
Cons:
- May not have as high of a protein content as some other mass gainers
- May have a slightly grainy texture when mixed with liquids
8. Elm & Rye Protein Supplement
Elm & Rye Protein Supplement is a protein powder that provides a high-quality blend of whey and casein proteins and digestive enzymes to enhance nutrient absorption and reduce digestive discomfort.
Its formula is free from artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners, making it a natural and healthy option for those looking to support their weight gain and muscle-building goals.
9. NOW Sports
NOW Sports is a protein powder that provides a high-quality blend of whey and casein proteins and digestive enzymes to enhance nutrient absorption and reduce digestive discomfort.
Its formula is free from artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners, making it a natural and healthy option for those looking to support their weight gain and muscle-building goals.
10. Optimum Nutrition
Optimum Nutrition is a well-known and trusted brand in the fitness industry, offering a range of high-quality supplements, including protein powders.
Their weight gainer formula includes a blend of proteins, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and digestive enzymes to enhance nutrient absorption and reduce digestive discomfort.
11. Cellucor Whey Sport
Cellucor Whey Sport is a protein powder that provides a high-quality blend of whey protein to support muscle growth and recovery after workouts.
Its formula includes digestive enzymes to enhance nutrient absorption and reduce digestive discomfort.
It is a convenient and easy-to-digest option for those looking to supplement their protein intake for weight gain and muscle-building goals.
12. Momentous Essential
Momentous Essential is a high-quality protein powder that is specially formulated for athletes. It is made with grass-fed whey and contains no artificial flavors or sweeteners.
Pros:
Contains high-quality ingredients, no artificial flavors or sweeteners, and has been third-party tested for purity and potency.
Cons:
It may be a bit pricey compared to other options, and the packaging is not environmentally friendly.
13. Vital Proteins
Vital Proteins is a collagen-based protein powder supporting joint health, skin, hair, nail growth, and overall wellness.
It is derived from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen and contains other essential nutrients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid.
14. Orgain Organic
Vital Proteins is a collagen-based protein powder supporting joint health, skin, hair, nail growth, and overall wellness.
It is derived from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen and contains other essential nutrients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid.
15. Orgain Organic
Orgain Organic is a plant-based protein powder that contains a blend of organic peas, brown rice, chia proteins, and organic fruits and vegetables for added nutrition. It is also free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors.
16. Legion Plant+ Vegan
Legion Plant+ Vegan is a plant-based protein powder that contains a blend of pea and rice proteins and essential amino acids to support muscle growth and recovery.
It is also free from artificial sweeteners and flavors, making it a healthy and natural option.
17. TRU Plant
TRU Plant is a vegan protein powder that contains a blend of organic pea and brown rice proteins and digestive enzymes for enhanced nutrient absorption and digestive health. It is also free from GMOs, gluten, soy, and dairy.
18. Vega Sport
Vega Sport is a plant-based protein powder that contains a blend of pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed, alfalfa proteins, tart cherry extract, and probiotics to support recovery and overall health.
19. Isagenix Isapro
Isagenix IsaPro is a whey protein powder that contains a high-quality blend of whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate, as well as digestive enzymes for enhanced absorption and digestion.
It is also low in lactose and fat, making it a convenient and easy-to-digest option.
20. Muscle Milk
Muscle Milk is a protein powder that contains a blend of whey and casein proteins, healthy fats, and other essential nutrients.
It is also gluten-free and free from banned substances, making it a safe and healthy option for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
What Are the Different Types of Protein Powders?
There are several different types of protein powders available on the market, including:
- Whey Protein: The most popular type of protein powder, made from cow’s milk.
- Casein Protein: Also derived from cow’s milk, but digests more slowly than whey.
- Soy Protein: Made from soybeans and suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
- Pea Protein: A plant-based protein powder made from yellow split peas.
- Rice Protein: Another plant-based option made from brown rice.
- Hemp Protein: Made from ground hemp seeds and contains all essential amino acids.
- Collagen Protein: Made from animal bones and tissues and often marketed for joint health benefits.
How Much Protein Powder Should You Take?
The recommended daily intake of protein varies depending on factors such as age, gender, weight, and activity level.
However, a general guideline for adults is to consume around 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.
As for protein powder specifically, consuming 20-30 grams of protein per serving is recommended, depending on the individual’s protein needs and the specific product being used.
It is important to follow the instructions on the product label and consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to determine the appropriate amount of protein powder for your needs.
What Are the Side Effects of Taking Protein Powder?
Although protein powders are generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses, some potential side effects include:
Digestive Issues: Some people may experience digestive discomforts such as bloating, gas, and stomach cramps due to the lactose or other ingredients in the protein powder.
Allergic Reactions: People with allergies to certain protein sources, such as whey or soy, may experience allergic reactions after consuming protein powders.
Kidney Damage: Excessive protein intake can strain the kidneys, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney problems.
Dehydration: Protein powders can increase the body’s water needs, so staying hydrated is important.
Weight Gain: Taking protein powder in excess can lead to weight gain, especially if not accompanied by an active lifestyle or balanced diet.
Final Thoughts
Protein powders can be a convenient and effective way to supplement your diet and meet your daily protein needs.
With many options available, it is important to consider your individual goals and dietary restrictions when choosing a protein powder. That is the reason we have covered the best protein powders for weight gain on this blog.
It is also crucial to be aware of potential side effects and to use protein powders as directed by the manufacturer or a healthcare professional.
It can be a useful addition to a balanced and healthy diet with proper use and moderation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Protein powder is safe for weight gain when used in moderation and in combination with a balanced diet and exercise routine. However, excessive consumption of protein powder can lead to negative side effects.
The amount of protein powder you should take for weight gain depends on your body weight and individual dietary needs.
Generally, consuming 1-1.5 grams of protein per pound of body weight per day is recommended, combining whole foods and protein supplements.
Excessive protein powder consumption can lead to negative side effects such as dehydration, kidney damage, digestive issues, and weight gain.
Using protein powder in moderation is important, and consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Yes, women can take protein powder for weight gain. However, choosing a protein powder specifically formulated for women is important, and following recommended serving sizes is important.
Protein powder can help with weight loss by increasing feelings of fullness and reducing overall calorie intake.
However, it is important to use protein powder in combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise routine for the best results.