There are different kinds of weight gain supplements available in the market today, from protein powders to creatin, to weight gainers, etc. each of these supplements has its pros and cons and different use cases.
Our guide to choosing the right supplement for your weight gain needs will save you tons of research. We want to help you understand the supplements you choose and why you need them.
It is always advisable to check in with a doctor or nutritionist before taking such a decision but this write-up will give you adequate pointers as to why certain supplements are not for you and why some others might be just what you need.
How We Made this List
What we looked for
Here are some factors we considered when selecting the best supplements for weight gain:
- Quality of Ingredients
We looked out for supplements that have rich ingredients such as proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. These are the basic building blocks for weight gain.
If we know that the aim of supplementation is to supply the body with the necessary nutrients needed for weight gain, the quality of ingredients is important to getting the right results.
Supplements that contain artificial sweeteners, preservatives, or additives in obvious quantities did not make the list.
- Calories per serving
It is important to note that calories per serving directly influence the effectiveness of weight gain. If the calories-per-serving is not high enough weight gain through supplementation will not be effective.
Weight gain is a game of calorie arithmetic. A biological male requires about 2500 cal to run an entire day while a biological female requires around 2000 cal for daily activities.
To effectively gain weight, an extra 300 to 500 cal is required for a slow weight gain process while an extra 500 to 700 cal initiates a fast weight gain process. A good supplement should provide between 300 and 500 calories per serving.
- Price:
We did not sacrifice quality for price. The supplements that made our list are those that offer the best value for money.
Good quality most times comes at a reasonable cost and we also know that this ideology is being taken advantage of. Some poor-quality products are set at a high cost to boost their acceptance off the ideology just stated.
Some supplements just have added vitamins to boost the price and those did not make the list.
- Taste and Mixability
Taste and mixability are also important factors to consider when choosing a good weight gain supplement.
Supplements that taste good give you enough motivation to stick to the routine. Mixability ensures that the supplement mixes well with water or milk, that way it becomes convenient to prepare.
Good taste and mixability help you stick to your supplement routine and ensure that you are getting the nutrients you need.
- Dosage
The dosage of weight gain supplements is important to consider as wrong doses have their cons. Products with unclear dosage directions did not make our list because of the tendency to be abused.
- Brand reputation
The weight supplements on our list are those from reputable brands that have a history of producing high-quality products. Having a good customer service history is also one of the qualities of the products selected. Everyone should be able to reach out to the company to lodge complaints or inquiries if need be.
Top 5 Weight Gain Supplements in 2023
- Ensure Original Nutrition Shake with Fiber
- Soylent Plant Based Creamy Chocolate Meal Replacement Shake
- Naked Mass – Natural Weight Gainer Protein Powder
- IRONVEGAN Gainer Chocolate Protein Powder
- Pediasure With Fiber Nutrition Drink Bottles
1. Ensure Original Nutrition Shake with Fiber
Ensure Original Nutrition Shake with Fiber is a popular nutrition supplement that is designed to provide a balanced blend of essential nutrients, fiber, and calories. Here are some highlights, pros, and cons of Ensure Original Nutrition Shake with Fiber.
Highlights
Ensure Original Nutrition Shake with Fiber is a high-quality nutrition supplement that contains a balanced blend of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
It is designed to provide a convenient and easy way to supplement a person’s diet with essential nutrients and fiber.
The supplement is available in a variety of flavors, including chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, which makes it a great option for people who prefer different tastes.
Ensure Original Nutrition Shake with Fiber is a good source of fiber, which can help support digestive health and regulate blood sugar levels.
Pros
- Convenient and easy to consume
- Contains a balanced blend of essential nutrients
- Available in a variety of flavors
- Good source of fiber to support digestive health and regulate blood sugar levels
Cons:
- Relatively high in sugar
- Relatively low in protein
- May not be suitable for people with certain food allergies or sensitivities
2. Soylent Plant Based Creamy Chocolate Meal Replacement Shake
Soylent Plant-Based Creamy Chocolate Meal Replacement Shake is a nutritious drink that offers a convenient and easy way to get essential nutrients on-the-go. It is a vegan and gluten-free drink that is made from a blend of plant-based protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.
This drink is a complete meal replacement that can be enjoyed as a breakfast, lunch, or dinner substitute. Here are some highlights, pros, and cons of the Soylent Plant-Based Creamy Chocolate Meal Replacement Shake.
Highlights
The Soylent Plant-Based Creamy Chocolate Meal Replacement Shake is a convenient and affordable way to get a complete meal in a bottle.
It is a vegan and gluten-free drink that is suitable for people with dietary restrictions and preferences.
The drink is made from a blend of plant-based protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals that provide the body with all the necessary nutrients.
Soylent Plant-Based Creamy Chocolate Meal Replacement Shake is easy to prepare and can be consumed at home or on the go, making it a perfect meal option for busy individuals.
Pros
- Complete meal replacement that provides all the essential nutrients
- Excellent source of protein
- Contains only 9 grams of sugar per serving
- Convenient and easy to consume
Cons
- The taste may not appeal to everyone
- Some people may find the texture of the drink to be too thick or gritty, which can be unappetizing.
3. Naked Mass – Natural Weight Gainer Protein Powder
Naked Mass is a natural weight-gainer protein powder that is designed to help people gain lean muscle mass and increase their overall body weight. Here are some highlights, pros, and cons of Naked Mass.
Highlights
Naked Mass is made from natural and minimally processed ingredients, which makes it a great option for people who are looking for a healthier and more natural weight gainer supplement.
The supplement is free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors, which can help reduce the risk of negative side effects.
It contains a high amount of calories and protein per serving, which can help support muscle growth and weight gain.
Naked Mass is available in a variety of flavors, including chocolate and vanilla, which makes it a great option for people who prefer different tastes.
Pros
- Made from natural and minimally processed ingredients
- Supports muscle growth and weight gain
- Free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors
- Easy to diges
- Relatively affordable
Cons
- May not be suitable for people who are lactose intolerant
- May not be suitable for people who are trying to limit their calorie intake
- May cause bloating or gastrointestinal discomfort in some people
4. IRONVEGAN Gainer Chocolate Protein Powder
Iron Vegan Gainer Chocolate Powder is a plant-based protein supplement that is designed to help athletes and bodybuilders gain muscle mass and improve their overall performance.
It is a vegan-friendly and gluten-free supplement that contains a blend of plant-based protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients. Here are some highlights, pros, and cons of the Iron Vegan Gainer Chocolate Powder.
Highlights
The Iron Vegan Gainer Chocolate Powder is a high-quality plant-based protein supplement that contains a blend of organic pea protein, organic brown rice protein, and organic pumpkin protein.
It is a vegan-friendly and gluten-free supplement that is free from artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners.
The supplement is designed to help athletes and bodybuilders gain muscle mass and improve their overall performance.
Iron Vegan Gainer Chocolate Powder is a great source of carbohydrates, containing 52 grams of carbohydrates per serving, which can help replenish glycogen stores and provide energy for workouts.
The supplement is easy to mix and has a delicious chocolate flavor that makes it a great addition to smoothies or other beverages.
Pros
- High-quality plant-based protein supplement
- Contains a blend of plant-based protein sources
- Improves muscle growth and recovery
- Easy to mix
- Delicious chocolate flavor
- Free from artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners
Cons
- Some people may find the taste of the taste to be too sweet or too rich
- Relatively high in calories
- Relatively expensive
5. Pediasure With Fiber Nutrition Drink Bottles
PediaSure with Fiber is a nutrition drink bottle that is designed to provide essential nutrients to children who may not be getting enough from their regular diet. Here are some highlights, pros, and cons of PediaSure with Fiber.
Highlights
PediaSure with Fiber contains a blend of essential nutrients, including protein, vitamins, and minerals, that can help support a child’s growth and development.
The supplement is available in a variety of flavors, including chocolate and vanilla, which makes it more appealing to children.
PediaSure with Fiber is a convenient way to ensure that children are getting the nutrients they need, especially for picky eaters or children with medical conditions that affect their appetite.
The supplement is gluten-free and suitable for children with lactose intolerance or sensitivity.
Pros
- Supports a child’s growth and development.
- Easy to digest
- Convenient and portable option for busy parents
- Suitable for people with lactose intolerance or sensitivity
- Gluten-free
Cons
- May be more expensive
- Contains added sugars
- Not a substitute for healthy and balanced meals
Weight Gain Supplements Buying Guide: Key Factors to Consider
The choice of weight gain supplements is a big decision for your weight gain journey and should be done carefully.
- Know your goals
Before buying any weight gain supplement, it’s essential to know your goals. Are you looking to gain muscle mass, increase your overall weight, or both?
Knowing your goals will help you choose the right supplement that can help you achieve your goals.
- Look for quality ingredients
The quality of the ingredients used in the supplement is crucial. Look for supplements that use high-quality protein sources like whey protein isolate or concentrate, casein, or egg protein.
Additionally, the supplement should contain essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that support muscle growth and overall health.
- Consider the calorie content
Weight gain supplements should provide a significant calorie boost to help you reach your goals. Look for supplements that contain around 500-1000 calories per serving.
However, keep in mind that consuming too many calories can lead to unhealthy weight gain. Read more on how excess calories can affect your weight gain here.
- Avoid harmful ingredients
Avoid weight gain supplements that contain harmful ingredients like steroids, hormones, or artificial sweeteners.
These ingredients can have negative effects on your health and may even be illegal.
- Read customer reviews
Before buying any weight gain supplement, read customer reviews to see what other people have experienced. This can give you a better idea of how effective the supplement is and whether it’s worth buying. - Consult with a professional
If you’re unsure about which weight gain supplement to buy, consult with a professional like a nutritionist or personal trainer.
They can give you personalized recommendations based on your goals and needs.
Remember, weight gain supplements should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise routine. No supplement can replace the benefits of a well-rounded, balanced approach to health and fitness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which supplement is best for weight gain faster?
Any supplement that is high in protein, carbohydrates, and fats will translate to added calories. This calorie surplus equals weight gain.
- What vitamins cause rapid weight gain?
No vitamins directly cause rapid weight gain. In fact, vitamins are essential nutrients that the body needs in small amounts to function properly and maintain overall health.
However, some supplements, such as weight gain powders or protein supplements, may contain high amounts of calories and may lead to weight gain if consumed in excess.
These supplements may also contain added vitamins and minerals to support overall health, but it is the excess calories that are contributing to weight gain, not the vitamins themselves.
It’s important to remember that weight gain or loss is primarily determined by the balance between the number of calories consumed and the number of calories burned through physical activity and daily bodily functions.
A balanced and varied diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods, along with regular exercise, is the best way to maintain a healthy weight and support overall health.
- What nutrient causes the most weight gain?
To promote healthy weight gain, nutrients such as protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats are most needed. Other food categories like fruits and vegetables are required for vitamins, minerals, and fiber which are necessary for overall health.
- Do weight gain supplements cause long-term weight gain?
The long-term effects of weight gain supplements on weight gain are not well-studied. It’s important to remember that healthy weight gain occurs gradually over time and is best achieved through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, weight gain supplements can be a valuable tool for those seeking to put on muscle mass and increase their overall body weight. However, it is important to remember that these supplements should not be relied upon as a substitute for a healthy diet and consistent exercise routine.
Additionally, individuals should always consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement regimen, especially if they have preexisting medical conditions or are taking prescription medications.
While there is a multitude of weight gain supplements available on the market, the top five recommended supplements include Ensure Original Nutrition Shake with Fiber, Soylent Plant Based Creamy Chocolate Meal Replacement Shake, Naked Mass – Natural Weight Gainer Protein Powder, IRONVEGAN Gainer Chocolate Protein Powder, and Pediasure With Fiber Nutrition Drink Bottles.
These supplements can offer a range of benefits, from aiding in muscle recovery and reducing muscle fatigue to increasing muscle mass and supporting overall weight gain.
When used in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise routine, these supplements can help individuals reach their weight gain goals in a safe and effective manner.
It is important to note, however, that supplements are not a magic solution and should be viewed as part of a comprehensive approach to achieving overall health and wellness.
By incorporating supplements into a well-rounded lifestyle plan, individuals can optimize their efforts toward building muscle mass and achieving their desired body weight.
