Bodybuilders and athletes often require additional supplements to help them maintain considerable muscle mass.
Fast weight gain supplements, more commonly known as ‘mass gainers’, cater to such people who are looking to add that extra mass by providing the right nutrients to enhance their physique.
But what is a mass gainer and how does it help?
Mass gainers are supplements that are loaded with the right amount of protein, some fats, plenty of carbohydrates, calories, and other nutrients to aid in building muscle mass.
Mass gainers help people who, owing to high metabolism are unable to gain weight. Individuals who may not be consuming adequate carbs and proteins to keep up their athletic performance or support bodybuilding consider mass gain supplements the need of the hour.
Many mass gain supplements are available in the market and here is our list of the 6 best mass gainer supplements that can help.
Our Best Picks:
1. Best Mass Gainer With Whey Protein (Grass-fed) – Transparent Labs ProteinSeries Mass Gainer
2. Best Gluten-free Mass Gainer – Naked Nutrition Naked Mass
3. Best Mass Gainer Under 1000 Calories – Optimum Nutrition Pro Gainer
4. Best Mass Gainer with Multi-source Protein – BSN True-Mass
5. Best Budget – Dymatize Super Mass Gainer
6. Best Mass Gainer Above 1000 Calories – MuscleTech Mass-Tech Extreme
Now let’s look at each of these mass gainer supplements in detail to find out why they are considered the best in their categories.
1. Best Mass Gainer With Whey Protein (Grass-fed) – Transparent Labs ProteinSeries Mass Gainer
Whey protein is derived from milk and is one of the most potent sources of protein for muscle building. 100% grass-fed whey means that the cows have been raised on green grass pastures without any steroids or hormones (1).
About Transparent Labs ProteinSeries Mass Gainer
Transparent Labs ProteinSeries Mass Gainer is a top-ranking supplement with a unique combination of several natural ingredients that offers effective muscle building along with desired weight gain.
Suitable for both men and women, Transparent Labs manufactures its products in the USA using non-GMO ingredients. The whey protein is obtained from grass-fed cows and the carbohydrate is from organic tapioca, oat, and sweet potato.
What it Contains:
Each Serving Size of 2 Scoops (196.76g) has:
- Calories: 790
- Total Fat: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg
- Sodium: 610 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 114 g
- Dietary Fiber: 6 g
- Sugar: 17 g
- Protein: 53 g
Transparent Labs ProteinSeries Mass Gainer is available in a tub pack of 2.951 g (6.51 lbs) that provides 15 servings. It is available in 2 delicious flavors, chocolate (gluten-free) and cookies n cream (contains gluten).
It contains stevia and monk fruit as natural sweeteners, creatine monohydrate for muscle building, coconut powder, and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) with essential fatty acids that are deemed safe.
The recommended dosage is 2 scoops (196.76 g) taken post-workout for maximum efficiency. This supplement can be taken with 8 oz of water or can be mixed in milk to make a perfect mass gainer shake.
Transparent Labs StrengthSeries Creatine HMB contains 100% pure ingredients and does not contain any artificial colors, sweeteners, preservatives, or fillers.
The Pros:
- 100% natural, grass-fed bovine whey
- Organic sources of carbohydrates and natural sweeteners
- Available in 2 flavors
- No artificial ingredients, fillers, or preservatives
Summary: Transparent Labs ProteinSeries Mass Gainer is a non-GMO supplement with a combo of nutrients for acquiring muscle mass and weight. Free from artificial ingredients, this product ensures safety in consumption.
2. Best Gluten-free Mass Gainer – Naked Nutrition Naked Mass
Whey and casein are two types of high-quality proteins derived from milk and contain the highest amount of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) that support muscle protein synthesis.
Though both are derived from bovine milk, whey digests quickly and is recommended after workouts, while casein digests more slowly and has a better satiety effect.
About Naked Nutrition Naked Mass
Naked Nutrition Naked Mass is a popular supplement that is designed with just 3 constituents to support the growth of lean mass and additional weight gain in conjunction with regular workouts.
Manufactured by Naked Nutrition in Florida, USA, this product is third-party tested and certified gluten-free. With the right balance between nutrients, you have the advantage to acquire the bulky and healthy physique that you desire.
What it Contains:
Each serving is of 4 Scoops (321g)
4 Scoops = 360cc = 24.3 tbsp = 73.0 tsp will give you
- Calories: 1250
- Total Fat: 2.5 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 252 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1 g
- Sugars: 5 g
- Protein: 50 g
Available in containers of 8 lb (3.63 kg), Naked Mass is designed to cater to 11 servings. Available in 2 flavors and unflavored, this supplement can be consumed as an in-between meal or before bedtime in addition to your daily diet.
The 3 main ingredients are organic maltodextrin from tapioca, Naked whey, and Naked casein. The combination of multi-phase proteins, complex carbohydrates, and amino acids help to build lean mass efficiently.
Naked Nutrition Naked Mass is a pure, natural supplement that is free from GMOs, artificial ingredients, and additives. This product is soy-free, hormone-free, and chemical-free ensuring complete safety in consumption.
The Pros:
- 100% gluten-free supplement
- Only 3 ingredients
- Available as flavored and unflavored
- Free from soy, hormones, and artificial ingredients
Summary: Naked Nutrition Naked Mass contains organic sources of carbs and potent milk-based proteins to gain lean mass easily. Certified gluten-free, it does not contain hormones or artificial ingredients that are harmful to health.
3. Best Mass Gainer Under 1000 Calories – Optimum Nutrition Pro Gainer
The protein blend is a great blend of high-quality proteins such as whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, calcium caseinate, egg albumin, hydrolyzed whey peptides, and glutamine peptides. These make it a powerful combination in conjunction with regular training to build muscle mass effectively.
About Optimum Nutrition Pro Gainer
Optimum Nutrition Pro Gainer is a well-known supplement that is formulated with an appropriate combination of nutrients. Adding just 650 calories a day to one’s daily diet, it helps men and women to build lean muscle mass quickly.
Designed to deliver sufficient calories along with high-quality proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, this supplement fulfills the need for extra calories required to gain weight.
Manufactured in the USA, Optimum Nutrition uses cGMP facilities that are inspected rigorously for quality assurance from the procurement of raw materials up to the end product.
What it Contains:
Each heaped serving of 1 Scoop (165 g) contains
- Calories: 650
- Total Fat: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
- Sodium: 390 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 85 g
- Dietary Fiber: 5 g
- Sugars: 6 g
- Protein: 60 g
Optimum Nutrition Pro Gainer is packed in containers of 5.08 lb (2.31 kg) which provide 14 servings. It comes in 4 tasty flavors, vanilla custard, double chocolate, strawberry cream, and banana cream pie.
The suggested dosage is one heaped scoop mixed in 16 ounces of water or 6-8 fl ounces of milk for consumption. This dissolvable weight gain powder can be blended into a post-workout shake or as a calorie booster at any time of the day.
The Pros:
- Powerful protein blend from various sources
- Manufactured in cGMP approved facilities
- Available in 4 delicious flavors
- Easily dissolves in water or milk
Summary: Optimum Nutrition Pro Gainer is a supplement with a variety of adequate nutrients to help achieve weight gain and lean mass. With 4 yummy flavors, it can be used in-between meals or to boost calories anytime.
4. Best Mass Gainer With Multi-source Protein – BSN True-Mass
Multi-protein matrix – is a selection of 8 powerful proteins ( Whey Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Isolate, Hydrolyzed Whey Protein, Calcium Caseinate, Micellar Casein, Milk Protein Isolate, Egg Albumin, Glutamine Peptides) to provide maximum support and growth of lean muscle mass and enable faster muscle recovery.
About BSN True-Mass
BSN True-Mass is a unique supplement loaded with essential nutrients such as proteins, complex carbohydrates, fats, and other nutrients that help attain weight gain and lean mass easily.
The unique 4:1 ratio of carbs to protein ensures constant energy that can enhance faster recovery from intensive training while feeding natural essential amino acids and BCAAs into muscles to focus on building mass.
BSN, a pioneer in Sports Nutrition, manufactures its True-Mass at its GMP registered and GMP for Sport by NSF facilities in Aurora, Illinois, USA.
What it Contains:
Each serving size of 2 scoops (310g) contains
- Calories: 1230
- Total Fat: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
- Sodium: 530 mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 222 g
- Dietary Fiber: 16 g
- Sugars: 16 g
- Protein: 50 g
BSN’s True-Mass is available in packets of 10.25 lb (4.65 kg) that can provide up to 15 servings. The recommended dosage is 2 heaped servings of this supplement mixed in 16 fluid ounces of water or milk for consumption.
Apart from BSN’s multi-protein formula, this supplement has complex carbohydrates that include ground whole oats, 12 g of BCAAs, and 25 g of EAAs per serving.
BSN’s True-Mass can be taken between meals, post workouts, and before bed depending on one’s needs. It can be stacked with other supplements that complete an athlete or bodybuilder’s requirement to get the best of strength, muscle power, and mass.
The Pros:
- Special multi-protein formula
- 4:1 complex carbs to protein ratio
- Best for post-workouts, between meals, and/or before bedtime
- Made in GMP for Sport by NSF facility in the USA
Summary: BSN’s True-Mass is an effective supplement that contains multi-proteins and complex carbs in the ratio of 4:1, with amino acids for energy and building mass. Available in 3 delightful flavors, this supplement is the perfect support to provide the required nutrition for daily training.
5. Best Budget – Dymatize Super Mass Gainer
Pricing is one of the primary factors that buyers consider when purchasing good supplements. Many brands offer competitive rates and extra discounts for their products. But getting the right product at a cost-effective price is a challenge.
Dymatize Super Mass Gainer aims to provide a great, nutritious supplement at the least possible cost to help users gain a good physique, weight, and mass while being easy on their pockets.
About Dymatize Super Mass Gainer
Dymatize Super Mass Gainer is a top-ranking supplement that is formulated to provide an effective combination of nutrients to support muscle growth, mass, and fast recovery post-workouts.
This low-cost supplement provides a good ratio of proteins, carbs, vitamins, and BCAAs to fuel energy through workouts, promote protein synthesis, and gain lean mass.
Dymatize manufactures True-Mass with the latest technologies in its GMP certified facility in the USA. This product is tested for banned substances and is also gluten-free.
What it Contains:
Each serving size of 2 ½ cups (333 g) when mixed with water contains
- Calories: 1280
- Total Fat: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 245 g
- Sugars: 23 g
- Protein: 52 g
Note: The calorie count and other nutritional facts can increase when the supplement is added to milk.
Dymatize Super Mass Gainer is available in containers of 6 lb (2.7 kg) that provide around 8 servings. Also available in 12 lb (5.4 kg) packets, it comes in 3 delicious flavors: gourmet vanilla, cookies and cream, and rich chocolate.
This supplement along with proteins and carbohydrates also contains 10.7 g of BCAAs that includes 5.1 g of leucine which supports protein synthesis. Besides, it has 17 vitamins and minerals to provide adequate nourishment to muscle tissues and support muscle recovery.
The suggested dosage is 2 heaped scoops added to 24 – 32 oz of water or 32 oz of milk and blended for about 45 seconds for a delicious shake that can be used in between meals, post-workouts, or before bedtime.
The Pros:
- Budget-friendly price
- A blend of fast, medium, and slow-digesting proteins of 52 g
- 245 g of carbs per serving for continuous energy
- Strong profile of vitamins and BCAAs to support muscle recovery
Summary: Dymatize Super Mass Gainer is a budget-friendly product that contains a powerful combination of nutrients to support strength, energy, and muscle growth. Gluten-free and tested for banned substances this supplement can be used at any time to gain muscle and weight.
6. Best Mass Gainer Above 1000 Calories – MuscleTech Mass Tech Extreme
The whey protein blend is an ideal combination of one of the different forms of whey, such as Whey Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Isolate, and Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate This blend is highly recommended to gain perfect muscle growth and mass.
Multi-phase carb complex consists of Glucose Polymers, Oat Bran (as Avena sativa), and Isomaltulose. This combination packs heavy carbs that can provide all-day energy and ensure quick muscle glycogen replenishment in the body.
About MuscleTech Mass Tech Extreme
MuscleTech Mass Tech Extreme is a supplement with unique combinations of nutrients that is suitable for athletes and bodybuilders to build great muscles and strength.
Formulated to provide body-building whey proteins, multi-phase carbs, and an amazing 2000 calories in just one serving, this supplement, manufactured in the USA by MuscleTech, helps to add weight and muscle without fat.
What it Contains:
Each serving size of 6 heaping scoops (570 g) contains
- Calories: 2060
- Total Fat: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 190 mg
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 443 g
- Sugars: 20 g
- Protein: 60 g
The calories are 2270, proteins are 80 g, and all other nutritional facts increase in proportion when the supplement is added to 20oz of skim milk.
MuscleTech Mass Tech Extreme is packed in containers each weighing 22.04 lbs (10 kg) in vanilla milkshake flavor. The suggested dosage is 6 scoops once a day or 3 scoops twice a day, with water or skim milk. It can be taken in the mornings, between meals, or post-workout.
Apart from the big nutrients, Mass Tech Extreme also contains powerful amino acids, creatine monohydrate (10g), and essential vitamins and minerals to promote muscle growth, strength, and faster recovery post-exercise.
MuscleTech Mass Tech Extreme can be stacked with other supplements too. Made in cGMP facilities using domestic and international ingredients, this product is clinically tested for efficiency. It is free of banned substances and fillers for consumer safety.
The Pros:
- Multi-phase carb complex exceeding 400 g per serving
- A powerful whey protein complex
- Added amino acids, creatine monohydrate, and vitamins
- Free of banned substances and fillers
Summary: MuscleTech Mass Tech Extreme is a powerful muscle-gaining supplement containing whey protein complex and multi-phase carbs. With added nutrients, it supports the need for muscle mass and strength easily.
The Dosage Instructions for Mass Gainer Supplements
Keep-in mind that mass gainer supplements should not be considered as an ideal replacement for natural food intake. They help to bridge deficits that arise from inadequate consumption of certain nutrients or when the body requires extra nutrition and energy to cope.
Mass gainer supplements can be consumed any time as an in-between meal option, post-workouts, or before bedtime to nourish the body with adequate carbs and proteins.
Different brands have different dosages based on their product content for maximum efficiency. But the suggested proportions of the main ingredients in a mass gainer are (2):
- Carb content should be around 60 – 65% constituting 6-10 g/kg of body weight per day
- Protein consumption should be at 15% constituting 1.2 – 1.7 g/ kg of body weight per day depending on the type of training
- Fats must ideally range between 20 – 25% as it provides energy, essential fatty acids, and fat-soluble vitamins.
Other than the constituents listed above mass gainers may contain additional ingredients such as amino acids, caffeine, creatine monohydrate, and many more. that help increase muscle mass and recovery.
Mass gainers are recommended to be taken in an appropriate dosage that may differ based on an individual’s needs. Your practitioner can guide you on the most effective dosage that can benefit your body’s needs and goals.
Summary: Mass gainers can be taken at any time depending on an individual’s needs. With the right proportions, mass gainers can provide extra nutrition required for lean mass, weight gain, or recovery post-exercise.
The Risks and Side Effects of Using Mass Gainer Supplements
Mass gainer supplements contain essential nutrients that are most beneficial for human health. Hence, they are generally considered quite safe.
However, certain ingredients used in these high-calorie protein powders may trigger allergic reactions in individuals.
Most mass gainer supplements contain soy, milk, or whey which are potent protein sources. But soy and milk products are high on the allergen list and people with known allergies should avoid/ be cautious about using them (3).
Some people experience gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, passing gas, etc. while using mass gainers. Too much fiber and protein may be the culprit and people sensitive to them may need to go slow with mass gainers.
Creatine, a common ingredient in weight gain supplements, can increase the risk of renal dysfunction in certain individuals (4).
Mass gainers are packed with high carbs to add weight and mass with regular use. Hence, one has to exercise caution in using mass gainers if workouts are not intense or regular, and may end up with an unhealthy fat gain.
Summary: Mass gainers contain additional nutrients that are healthy when taken with adequate exercise. To avoid adverse effects, people with allergies or other medical conditions should exercise caution while trying mass gainers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Purpose of Using a Mass Gainer?
Mass or weight gainers are used to help add muscle mass and aid in weight gain at the same time. These supplements are a combination of high-calorie carbohydrates, proteins, and a decent amount of fats. They help add the required weight and increase muscle mass when combined with regular workouts.
What is the Difference Between a Mass Gainer and a Protein Powder?
Protein powders are designed to provide potent doses of proteins (10g – 30g), whereas mass gainers can deliver up to 60g of protein. Besides mass gainers focus on high-calorie content with carbs which most protein powders tend to keep to a minimum.
How do I Select the Correct Mass Gainer Supplement?
Many reputed brands offer mass gainers for online purchases and you can choose the right one based on the following factors.
- The source and quality of protein used (whey, casein, egg-white, etc.)
- Proportions of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats
- Additional ingredients such as creatine, caffeine, amino acids that support muscle building
- Adequate calorie content
- Allergen information
- Choice of flavor (unflavored and flavored)
Can Mass Gainer Supplements be used to Replace Meals?
Weight gaining protein powders are designed to supplement your daily diet and not entirely replace them as the nutrition you get from your daily food is natural and vital for health.
Mass gainers can be taken daily in-between meals to keep up the required energy levels and for longer satiety. Several hundred calories are added through the intake of mass gainers and the frequency of using a weight gainer depends on the individual’s needs.
The Final Note
Mass gainer supplements are a great way to achieve extra weight and develop lean muscle mass in conjunction with regular, intensive workouts.
Sportspersons, bodybuilders, people with a high metabolism, or insufficient intake of proteins and carbs stand to benefit through the use of mass gainers.
Mass gainers with good proportions and an ideal ratio of proteins, carbs, fats, and other nutrients work best to help achieve your goal of optimized energy, better physique, and good muscles.
Mass gainers are available in the market as powdered supplements with different combinations and natural ingredients to support the growth of lean mass.
Most mass gainers are safe but it’s best if your practitioner can guide you on a suitable mass gainer supplement depending on your requirements and medical conditions, to avoid unpleasant side-effects and to achieve the desired results.
