​Train hard, eat smart.

Supplements should come after covering your basic nutritional needs. 

Nutrition is more than half the battle.

If you are eating junk food, it doesn’t matter how hard you train or how perfect your workouts are, you will struggle to move forward. 

Weight gainers are convenient and a luxury to have.

But they are not needed or required.

If you are an ectomorph who has a super hard time putting on weight, check your diet.

Once you know your diet is good, then maybe you can supplement and use these powders as they are super convenient and easy to take.

So to sum it all up…

It’s vital to just understand that training and nutrition (from real food) is the key to constant gains.

And even if your diet is perfect, mass gainers should not be the sole source of nutrition and macros.

Mass gainers, or weight gainers, are high calorie shakes.

Typically, they contain anywhere from 25g to 50g of protein, with twice or more the amount of carbs that range from 100 to 250g. 

The carbs are important because they’ll help with the digestion and it’ll usually be starchy carbs like maltodextrin. 

They’ll have less servings than protein powders, which is completely normal. 

Mass gainers have anywhere from 800 to 1200 calories per serving, where protein powders would have 100 to 150 calories. 

The problem with protein powders is that they only contain protein, up to 150 calories and they don’t have carbs. 

Mass gainers are that solution and they provide everything from protein, carbs, fats and fiber.

So if you have a mass gainer with lots of carbs, plenty of protein and some fat, then you have a decent shake to help up your calorie count.

This is the question that has most people hesitant on any supplement. 

For mass gainers, it’s the worry of it being unhealthy and it’s a fair concern.

Mass gainers aren’t meant to replace meals, they don’t have much of nutrients or vitamins if any. 

If you took these types of powders without actual food, it would be harmful for health and you would definitely be deficient in these vitamins. 

You should be consuming your basics like meats, nuts, oils, grains, vegetables, then you can add mass gainers. 

Mass gainers are supplements that are meant to supplement your diet and your diet should be set to help get the nutrients that you need to fuel performance and recovery. 

Blending foods like  spinach, oats, nuts, bananas, and frozen berries into a smoothie would help you get your nutrients and you would be well set on your way to making more gains. 

To sum it up, mass gainers aren’t unhealthy, but replacing real meals with gainers is unhealthy. 

They’ll only add calories to your diet. 

Mass gainers have lots calories and they are easily digestible, drinkable and convenient to take. 

While they don’t replace meals, they contain lots of muscle building ingredients, from starchy carbs to mixed protein sources.

The starchy carbs are important as it’ll help with the digestion of the protein. 

And the fat is typically minimal or none to help reduce fat gain but it is inevitable to gain fat while using a mass gainer.

If you’re bulking, you’ll gain a bit of fat, while it can be reduced, it’s hard to avoid. 

So does science prove mass gainers?

One study took men supplementing with maltodextrin and whey protein were able to gain 7.5lbs of muscle over 8 weeks while losing fat. 

Of course this isn’t going to be the result of everyone taking weight gainers, it comes down to the workout program and in this study, the researchers probably used a specific one to help the men gain muscle and lose fat. 

Muscle protein synthesis will occur when you take 25 to 50g of protein from a decent source.

When it comes to mass gainers, commonly you’ll find concentrate, and that’s a good source.

If you see a blend of sources, like a combination of concentrate and isolate, then it’s better.

Taking too much whey is possible and if you are, then you’ll probably have diarrhea. 

Carb sources can vary but one common source is maltodextrin and that’s an excellent source because it is easily absorbed and digested.

Maltodextrin helps with muscle glycogen, which is important for muscle building.

It’s derived from corn, and it’s similar to white rice but it’s a powder, making it easy to shake and consume. 

You may have heard somewhere that carbs are bad but for hardgainers or skinny guys, carbs are great. 

It’s great for muscle building and weight training as studies for hypertrophy proves this with this study and this one. 

The percentage of carbs from our overall diet should make up around 40-60% of the total calories as recommended from the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition and National Strength & Conditioning association. 

Combining whey and carbs provides an easy way to not only increase our calorie intake but also helps fuel our gains by providing carb and protein sources.

While they won’t replace meals, they’ll help increase our intake on carbs and protein.

To make the best use out of mass gainers, you’ll want to aim to gain at least 1lb per 2 weeks. And of course that’s as a skinny beginner, it may take longer than 2 weeks if you’re an advanced natural bodybuilder. 

The best time to use a mass gainer would either be after a workout, or a few hours after your workout. 

While it is a myth (see study) that you need to take advantage of your post workout window by consuming a lot of carbs and protein, it still is a good time to consume something especially as a skinny guy as you probably don’t get enough calories otherwise. 

If you don’t find your weight going up, try consuming a mass gainer during rest days. 

And if that isn’t working, then you’ll need to look at your overall diet, you are probably not eating enough calories. Increase your calorie intake by consuming whole foods, like eggs, chicken, rice, fish, etc. 

If you feel like you’re stuffing yourself and unable to consume more calories, try adding in more drinkable calories, this is where mass gainers can help, as well as smoothies and small snacks like nuts. 

If you’re gaining more than 1lb per week, then that’s too fast and you may end up gaining more fat.

Try slowing down and adjusting your calorie intake so you aren’t gaining more than 1lb per week. 

Mass gainers aren’t responsible for fat or any kind of weight gain. Eating more calories than you burn will be the cause of weight gain. 

How much fat you will gain will depend on your diet and exercise. 

But simply eating too many calories overall will result in more weight gained, with more fat. 

That isn’t because of weight gainers, it’s because you’re simply eating too many calories and gaining weight too rapidly. 

The point of mass gainers is to help you gain muscle with minimal to no fat. They have enough protein to help with muscle growth and are loaded with carbs to help boost glycogen storage. 

The starchy carbs that mass gainers contain are unlikely to be stored as fat because they are low in fat, and are included to help increase glycogen storage and help with muscle building.

Since mass gainers are generally anywhere from 800 to 1200 calories per serving, it’s normal to feel stomach issues after having them.

The problem is easily solved by reducing the serving size.

You would feel similar pain from food if you were to consume more than 1000 calories in one sitting. 

Try aiming for 500 to 800 calories by cutting the serving in half. This way your mass gainer will last longer and you’ll feel better after consuming it.

Also another thing to try is to have enough water to mix it, you may need to take half a serving per glass. 

Choosing a mass gainer when you have a sensitive stomach can difficult.

However, with the right guidance, you can find a product that not only helps you gain mass but also suits your digestive system.

Here are some factors to consider when buying a mass gainer for sensitive stomachs:

Serving Size / Calorie Count

Mass gainers with smaller serving sizes and lower calorie counts are typically easier on the stomach. Consider choosing a product with around 500 calories per serving, or split a larger serving into two to space out your intake.

Protein Type

The type of protein in your mass gainer can affect how your stomach reacts. Blends of different proteins, such as casein and milk proteins, are more stable in the stomach and gut, reducing the risk of immediate issues.

Carb Content and Type

The carbohydrate content and type in a mass gainer can impact your digestive health. Look for products with lower sugar content and higher starch or fiber. These stabilize the digestion of your carbs, while some forms of starch or fiber can actively regulate the stomach’s function.

Added Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzymes help pre-digest certain food nutrients, reducing the burden on your gut. Look for mass gainers that include enzymes like lipase, amylase, glucoamylase, and protease.

Fat Choices

While fats are not as powerful as proteins or carbs, they slow down absorption, which can be beneficial for sensitive stomachs. Look for mass gainers that include good fats, such as medium-chain triglycerides.

Mass Gainers for Sensitive Stomachs

Mass gainers are a popular supplement among athletes and bodybuilders looking to increase their calorie intake and promote muscle growth.

However, for individuals with sensitive stomachs, choosing the right mass gainer can be a challenge.

Some mass gainers can cause digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and stomach discomfort.

Fortunately, there are mass gainers specifically designed for those with sensitive stomachs.

When selecting a mass gainer for a sensitive stomach, it's important to consider the ingredients.

Look for products that are free from common allergens like gluten and lactose, as these can often cause digestive discomfort.

Additionally, mass gainers with digestive enzymes can help to break down proteins and carbohydrates, making them easier to digest.

Here are some of the best mass gainers for sensitive stomachs:

1. Optimum Nutrition Pro Gainer: This mass gainer is high in protein and low in sugar, making it a great option for those with sensitive stomachs. It also contains digestive enzymes to aid digestion.

2. Dymatize Super Mass Gainer: Dymatize's product is rich in protein and carbohydrates, and it includes a blend of digestive enzymes known as Zytrix to help ease digestion.

3. Universal Nutrition Real Gains Weight Gainer: This product is lactose-free and contains both fiber and complex carbohydrates, making it easier on the stomach.

4. MuscleMeds Carnivor Mass: Unlike many other mass gainers, this product is made from beef protein isolate, which can be easier to digest for some people. It's also lactose-free and gluten-free.

5. Naked Mass Natural Weight Gainer Protein Powder: This mass gainer is made with only three ingredients: whey protein, casein protein, and maltodextrin. It's free from artificial additives and common allergens, making it a good choice for those with sensitive stomachs.

Remember, everyone's body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another.

It's always a good idea to try a small amount of a new product first to see how your body reacts.

If you're unsure, consult with a healthcare professional or a nutritionist.

What is a mass gainer?

A mass gainer is a supplement designed to help you gain weight by providing extra calories, typically in the form of protein and carbohydrates.

How is a mass gainer different from a protein powder?

While both provide protein, a mass gainer also provides a significant amount of carbohydrates and calories, making it a good option for those looking to gain weight or muscle mass.

How can a skinny person gain weight?

By consuming more calories than they burn, preferably from nutrient-dense foods and supplements like mass gainers.

Strength training can also help by promoting muscle growth.

Are there any side effects of mass gainers?

While generally safe, mass gainers can lead to fat gain if you consume too many calories.

Some people may also experience digestive issues.

How long does it take to see results from a mass gainer?

Results can vary depending on your diet, workout routine, and the mass gainer you're using.

However, with consistent use and a proper exercise regimen, you may start to see results in a few weeks.

Can I use a mass gainer without working out?

While you can technically use a mass gainer without working out, it's not recommended.

Without exercise, the extra calories provided by the mass gainer may lead to fat gain rather than muscle gain.

Can mass gainers cause kidney damage?

Mass gainers, like any supplement, should be used responsibly. Consuming too much protein, a key ingredient in mass gainers, can put strain on the kidneys over time. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.

Can I use a mass gainer to lose weight?

Mass gainers are designed to help you gain weight, specifically muscle mass. If your goal is weight loss, a mass gainer may not be the best choice.

Instead, consider a protein supplement and a balanced diet combined with regular exercise.

Can I take a mass gainer before bed?

Yes, taking a mass gainer before bed can provide your body with a steady supply of nutrients while you sleep.

However, some people may find that it disrupts their sleep, so it's best to see how your body reacts.

How much water should I mix with my mass gainer?

The amount of water (or sometimes milk) you should mix with your mass gainer will depend on the specific product. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.

Are mass gainers bad for you?

No but like all supplements, you can make bad choices with them. Read more about if mass gainers are bad for you here.

There are two things you need to remember about mass gainers:

1. Supplements. They are supplements and they are going to help you increase your calorie count, and increase muscle protein synthesis. They are not going to replace real nutrients and food. 
2. You don’t need full servings to take full advantage of them and they won’t cause fat gain. You will gain fat by overeating calories. 

We like mass gainers because they are like an anabolic shake, and since they are drinkable, they are an easy way to increase calorie count without inconvenience. 

Eating whole foods in combination with mass gainers will be the best way to increase lean mass. 

If your diet is already low tier, meaning you don’t eat enough veggies, fruits, whole foods, then it would be better for you to have a smoothie blended up with foods full of nutrition than buying a mass gainer.

A simple smoothie with yoghurt, berries, whey, berries and nuts will be better than a mass gainer.

It comes down to your diet.

Cover your foundation, use a good training program like this one then you can start using supplements like the weight gainers here.