You're constantly eating, yet not gaining an ounce...
Your stomach feels like it's about to burst, and your wallet's getting thinner with every mass gainer you buy.
Bloating, nausea, you name it...
Sound like a familiar story?
Don't worry we have done the research and collected the weight gainers for sensitive stomachs.
With a substantial 790 calories per serving, most of which come from clean nutrients, Mass Gainer is designed to help you maximize your gains without compromising your health. Plus, Transparent Labs lives up to its name by fully disclosing all its ingredients, so you know exactly what you're consuming.
Mass gainers may not be the magic solution to all your problems, but they're a step in the right direction.
They provide the calories, protein, and carbs your body needs daily.
But here's the catch: you won't see any gains without a caloric surplus.
And let's not forget the common issues with mass gainers - unhealthy fillers, ingredients that promote fat gain, and low-quality protein sources.
It leads us to the question if mass gainers are bad for us.
It makes you question why you're spending your hard-earned money to gain fat.
Unfortunately, there will always be companies that cut corners to maximize profits.
But don't worry; we've got your back.
We've done the research and found some solid weight gainers for you to choose from.
And with the rise of amino spiking and mass gainers still sneaking in fillers and useless ingredients, you need to tread carefully.
The next mass gainer you buy could leave you wondering why you wasted money to gain fat.
Remember, the goal here is to gain muscle while minimizing fat gain.
And to maximize your gains, consider using a pre-workout made for gains. Check out our pre-workout guide for more information.
So, let's dive in, starting with the best meal replacement supplements (which are weight gainers), and then moving on to the best mass gainers...
With a substantial 790 calories per serving, most of which come from clean nutrients, Mass Gainer is designed to help you maximize your gains without compromising your health. Plus, Transparent Labs lives up to its name by fully disclosing all its ingredients, so you know exactly what you're consuming.
Transparent Labs has been a trusted name in the supplement industry for years, delivering high-quality products that give athletes and bodybuilders that much-needed competitive edge.
But what if we told you they've raised the bar even higher with a mass gainer that's not just effective but also gentle on your stomach?
Introducing TL's mass gainer, a treasure trove of clean calories. Every scoop is packed with nutrients that fuel your gains without any unnecessary fillers.
The star of the show is the 53 grams of 100% Grass-Fed New Zealand Whey Concentrate.
Read our full review on TL's Mass Gainer here.
This isn't your average protein. It's derived from grass-fed cows, which means it's richer in Omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.
This makes it a more complete muscle builder compared to your average protein powder.
And let's talk about those 790 clean calories. Most mass gainers use cheap sources of carbs and protein, but TL's mass gainer is different.
It's packed with non-GMO maltodextrin, a complex carb that's derived from 100% pure tapioca starch.
This certified kosher and hypoallergenic form of maltodextrin ensures you're getting a clean source of carbs.
But the best part? Transparent Labs lives up to its name by fully disclosing all its ingredients.
You know exactly what you're getting, including flavoring and fillers. This level of transparency is rare in the industry, making TL's mass gainer one of the cleanest options available.
Pair this with their PreSeries Bulk pre-workout (check out the review here), and you're all set for an epic bulking season. And don't forget to use our 10% off coupon: FITFREK.
So, if you're looking for a mass gainer that's not just effective but also easy on your stomach, TL's mass gainer is worth a try.
It's a testament to Transparent Labs' commitment to quality, delivering a product that's not just good for your gains but also for your health.
RedCon1 has been selling this high quality meal gainer for years now.
It's still one of the popular choices as a meal replacement but it makes for a perfect gainer because of it's calorie content.
And you'll appreciate the sources of calories are from real foods and nutrients.
Instead of using artifical ingredients and chemical vitamins, everything good in here is from whole food.
This means this is probably one of the healthiest weight gainers around.
While each scoop only contains 525 calories, you can easily up that by mixing it with milk, blending it some extra foods like oatmeal, or fruits.
But as it is, the calorie content is here and it has plenty of carbs..
Whether you're a skinny guy or looking for a healthy weight gainer, MRE is an excellent choice.
Use coupon code FITFREK.
Isopure Mass brings simplicity and high quality ingredients into every scoop of this gainer.
It has everything a gainer should have, from BCAA's to complex carbs, vitamins and minerals.
Isopure Mass only contains the purest protein source in here, which is protein isolate.
That isn't the best thing, as you'd only be getting one source of protein from this and having a mix of sources ensures your muscles are constantly in an anabolic state.
This has 86 grams of carbs and 53g of whey isolate.
With that comes a blend of vitamins, amino acids, minerals that further supports overall health and well-being.
The carbs do come from maltodextrin and a blend of sources but this may be a turn off as the list of these ingredients are very low, but often they are included to make it taste better, even if it’s unhealthy like corn syrup solids and sunflower oil.
However, if you’re interested in a high calorie, 100% WPI mass gainer, and just want something to help you gain mass, then Nature’s Best is clearly a winner.
It shouldn’t cause any tolerance issues since it doesn’t contain lactose.
Ideally you want to get a mix of sources to ensure your muscles are constantly in a fed state.
If you're lactose intolerant, you'll love this as it's lactose free.
NutraBio is one of the oldest but respected companies in the supplement industry.
650 Calories, 6g Fat, 53g Protein, 100g Carbs
Extreme Mass is one of the healthiest weight gainers out there today.
Made by NutraBio, a superb company for true to the label supplements, this weight gainer has 650 calories with tons of healthy carbs, various protein sources, and lots of other nutrients that your bulk will benefit from.
This company that creates some of the best supplements for elite athletes, this is a top notch weight gainer.
Every serving has 6g of healthy fats (like MCT's etc), so you could easily cut the serving size in half and still get an optimal amount of macros here.
The protein blend is mixed with whey concentrate and casein..
So whether you've never had a weight gainer before or you just need the extra calories (and carbs / fats / protein) then you'll definitely pack on mass with this.
Use coupon code FITFREK for 15% off.
Dymatize's protein is like the IKEA of furniture, you can't really go wrong with it and you'll find them to be affordable.
The protein blend is quite premium, despite what you may judge from the supplement design (it doesn't really look appealing right?), but it starts its' protein blend with whey concentrate and whey isolate and ends with hydrolysate.
These sources of protein range from fast to medium to slow (with egg albumin and micellar casein) digesting so you'll be set drinking this before or after your workout.
It also has a digestive blend, all the vitamins and tops it off with creatine monohydrate (a must have for hardgainers).
Dymatize is also known for great tasting protein, this gainer is no different.
The price is also fair.
You could use full fat milk and use less of a serving and still get optimal amounts of macros and nutrients…
Use coupon code FITFREK for 15% off.
You can get also get this in the UK by clicking here.
Now this and BSN's True Mass 1200 are at a really close tie.
Optimum Nutrition's Serious Mass Gainer has been the top selling mass gainer of Amazon for some time but that doesn't mean it's the best.
You'll always find this gainer on many top lists and reviews like Gym Talk and many others.
We'll also have to do a serious in-depth review on this but here's the scoop and what each serving contains…
Every serving has 50 grams of various protein sources, 250 grams of carbs, 5 grams of fats, a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals, and even creatine and glutamine.
So you're not only getting a meal replacement here (if you don't mind drinking shakes as your meals) but also creatine and glutamine for optimal recovery and muscle growth.
Some people have claimed to gain up to 15 pounds on this, but we really doubt half of it would be muscle gains as the creatine and sodium in here can really add on water weight (which isn't a bad thing during bulking season).
If you want to avoid the bloating issues then you'll want to cut back to half a scoop while taking this but that would be the only reason why this isn't high up on the list.
Otherwise, this is perfect for you hardgainers and ectomorphs who are looking to gain mass.
Just combine it with a program like this one…
Use coupon code FITFREK for 15% off.
Crazy Nutrition is a fairly new player to the supplement industry with a nice lineup of products. This is their mass gainer, which is a good pick as a beginners mass gainer.
Crazy Nutrition's Mass Gainer is a protein powder supplement designed to support muscle gain and weight recovery.
It's a suitable choice for those aiming for a muscular physique without necessarily having to consume large amounts of food.
The product is packed with pure proteins and clean carbohydrates to promote healthy lean muscle mass.
The Mass Gainer contains a blend of ingredients, including Gluten-Free Oat Flour, MCT Oil, Whey Protein Blend, DigeZyme Enzyme Complex, Vitamin B6 and B12, and Magnesium and Zinc Oxide.
These ingredients work together to support muscle growth, energy production, and nutrient absorption.
This mass gainer is also designed to be a convenient meal replacement, providing nutritional support while enhancing muscle strength and energy.
It's available in two flavors, chocolate and vanilla, and includes DigeZyme to prevent bloating.
The downside though it does have maltodextrin.
Otherwise, it's a good choice.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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:
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.
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.
Universal Nutrition Real Gains Weight Gainer: This product is lactose-free and contains both fiber and complex carbohydrates, making it easier on the stomach.
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.
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.
A mass gainer is a supplement designed to help you gain weight by providing extra calories, typically in the form of protein and carbohydrates.
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.
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.
While generally safe, mass gainers can lead to fat gain if you consume too many calories.
Some people may also experience digestive issues.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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