12 Best Weight Gain Protein Shakes To Gain Muscle Mass
Give your body the boost it needs to make the well-deserved muscles of your dreams.
Rowinda Dimech is a registered dietitian with 6 six years of experience who provides individualized diets according to body type, age, lifestyle, medical conditions, allergies/ intolerances, level of physical activity, and food preferences. She is also a feeding therapist who helps treat feeding difficulties and weight and growth problems in children.
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Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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If you are spending a lot of time at the gym but cannot gain any muscle mass, you have come to the right place. Besides physical training, you need the best protein shakes for weight gain to reach the desired weight.
Rowinda Dimech, a registered dietitian and feeding therapist, says, “If, you are not gaining any muscle mass it means you are not eating enough. Ideally, your required calorie intake are consumed from food, meaning a mixture of carbs, protein and healthy fats. However, if you have a busy lifestyle and therefore you don’t have enough time to prepare and cook meals you can use other alternatives such as protein shakes.”
When combined with strict resistance training, whey protein effectively aids in lean muscle gain and weight gain (1). But have you ever wondered which protein shake will work the best for you? Your search ends here. This article has rounded up a list of the most effective protein shakes for weight gain to deliver promising results. Keep reading to explore the list!
In This Article
What Are Protein Shakes?
Protein shakes are a drink made from protein powders that are nothing but a concentrated formula containing various kinds of proteins derived from plant and animal sources. The most commonly used protein sources are whey and casein, which are animal products. Vegan protein powders are usually derived from soy, peas, hemp, and brown rice. These powders are blended in milk or water to make protein shakes. Some people prefer adding some fruits to their smoothie to sweeten the taste.
These drinks are almost like a dietary supplement for people who practice muscle-building workouts. Let’s explore their benefits in the next section.
How Does Protein Shake Benefit You?
Protein shakes are a staple for those pursuing a vigorous fitness goal. Athletes use these powders for weight gain. They are known to curb your appetite and boost your metabolism to help you gain the ideal body weight. You can have them between meals to postpone your next meal time or eat a smaller portion for your meals. Protein shakes, combined with a weight loss diet, help you gain muscle mass. Also, for people aiming to gain a healthy weight, protein shakes can take you a long way. However, they are not a replacement for diet and exercise; they are only to be used as a supplement.
The benefits of protein shakes are chanted in all workout spaces. But is there any downside to taking too much protein shake? Let’s take a look.
Potential Side-Effects Of Excessive Intake Of Protein Shakes
The common short-term problems associated with too much protein intake are bad breath, dehydration, and digestive issues like bloating, gas, or diarrhea. Also, you can also expect some acne outbursts, nausea, and tiredness. However, these symptoms reduce as you adjust the consumption of your protein intake.
In the long run, excessive protein intake can cause kidney and liver damage. Some commercial protein formulas contain toxic elements like lead, arsenic, and mercury, which, when consumed in large amounts, can cause severe damage to your muscle and bone health.
This is why you need to know the exact amount of protein powders that can benefit you without any side effects and how to include it in your healthy diet plan. Let’s discuss this in the section below.
How Much Protein Shake Should You Consume To Gain Muscle Mass?
As a rule of thumb, if you have a sedentary lifestyle, you can consume 0.8 grams of protein per one kilogram of your body weight, which is only 10% of your daily calorie intake. However, it is a very generic measure.
The amount of protein you should intake depends on many factors, like the kind of workouts, your fitness goals, and your body type. If you work out regularly, take up your protein intake to 1.2 to 2 grams per kilogram of body weight. It is nothing but impossible to give a good-for-all formula when it comes to protein intake for gaining muscle mass. If you want to get the best health benefits, it is ideal to consult your trainer or nutritionist.
12 Best Protein Shakes For Weight Gain
1. Top Choice:Optimum Nutrition (ON) Serious Mass Protein Powder Supplement
Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Protein Powder Supplement is the ultimate weight-gain formula that provides sufficient calories needed for muscle recovery. It provides 1250 kcal of energy, 250 g of carbs, and 50 g of protein per serving. It is a blend of high-quality protein sources, including whey protein concentrate, calcium caseinate, egg whites, and sweet whey. It also contains 500 mg of glutamine, 3 g of creatine, glutamic acid, and a blend of 25 different vitamins and minerals. This protein powder can be consumed before or after exercise, between meals, or at any time when you need extra protein. To know more about a tester’s experience of consuming the Optimum Nutrition (ON) Serious Mass Protein Powder Supplement, have a look at this video.
How To Prepare
Add 2 full scoops (336 g) of ON Serious Mass Protein Powder to 24 fl. oz. of cold water, milk, or any other beverage and blend for 30-45 seconds until completely dissolved.
When To Drink
It can be taken between meals, after weight training, and before bed.
- Available in different flavors
- Supports muscle building
- Aids weight gain
- Ideal post-workout supplement
- Replenishes the glycogen store in your body
- Not vegetarian
- Not suitable for people with lactose intolerance
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 61,126 reviews claiming its efficacy.
2. Best For Endurance:Dymatize Super Mass Gainer High Protein & Carb Blend
The Dymatize Super Mass Gainer shake contains both whey protein and casein to support muscle and weight gain. It provides 1310 kcal of energy and 245 g of carbs (per serving) for glycogen synthesis. These muscle-building shakes are loaded with 52 g of a fast, medium, and slow-digesting protein and 10.7 g of branched-chain amino acids per serving, including leucine for muscle protein synthesis.
The vitamins and minerals in it help nourish healthy muscle tissue and improve muscle recovery.
How To Prepare
Add 2 heaping scoops of Dymatize Super Mass Gainer to in 24-32 fl. oz. of water or 32 fl. oz. of whole milk. Blend it for 30-45 seconds. You can use ice cubes, fruits, or other ingredients for taste enhancement.
When To Drink
It can be taken between meals or after a workout to build muscle strength.
- Available in different flavors
- Provides immediate and continuous muscle fuel
- Creatine improves strength and endurance
- Not suitable for people with lactose intolerance
Remember3. Best Vegan Formula:Orgain Organic Protein Plant-Based Protein Powder
The Orgain Organic Protein Plant-Based Protein Powder is a low-calorie and low-carb protein shake with added vitamins and minerals for weight gain. It contains 21 g of protein, 5 g of carbs, and 5 g of fiber. The protein source is completely vegan, while the dietary fiber content helps to maintain a healthy digestive system. It is free of artificial flavors or sweeteners. It contains organic pea protein, organic brown rice protein, and organic chia seeds. The Orgain Organic Protein Plant-Based Protein Powder has great benefits. Click on this video that details a reviewer’s experience with this drink for weight gain.
How To Prepare
Mix 2 scoops (46g) of this plant protein powder in 8-10 fl. oz. of water or almond milk and shake in a shaker bottle. You may also use a blender.
When To Drink
It can be taken between meals to provide energy.
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- Non-GMO
- No added sugar
- Lactose-free
- Contains soy
Quick Tip4. Best For Post-Workout Recovery:Optimum Nutrition (ON) Pro Gainer High-Protein Weight Gainer Powder
Optimum Nutrition (ON) Pro Gainer High-Protein Weight Gainer is a high-quality protein formula with sufficient calories for muscle recovery. Each serving provides 650 kcal of energy, 65 g of protein, 85 g of carbs, and 22 vitamins and minerals.
It contains a blend of whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, calcium caseinate, egg whites, whey peptides, and whey glutamine peptides that support muscle mass gain and post-workout recovery.
How To Prepare
Mix 2 scoops (120 g) of this protein powder with 24 fl. oz. of water, milk, or any other beverage. Blend it for 35-45 seconds in a blender until the powder dissolves completely.
When To Drink
Drink this weight-gain shake between meals or as a post-workout protein supplement.
- Available in different flavors
- Useful for muscle recovery
- Prevents wear and tear of muscles
- Contains wheat, milk, soy, and gluten
- Not suitable for people with lactose intolerance
5. Best For Digestion:Bodybuilding.com Signature 100% Whey Protein Powder
Bodybuilding.com Signature 100% Whey Protein Powder is a low-carb and low-fat protein powder. It is easy to digest and a source of powerful branched-chain amino acids. It is made of 3 types of whey protein for muscle growth and recovery. Each serving contains 25 g of protein that is a blend of 13 g of whey isolate (52%), 6 g of whey concentrate (24 g), and 6 g of whey hydrolysate (24%). The digestive enzymes found in whey protein make this shake get absorbed quickly by the body and enhance amino-acid uptake. This product has garnered positive reviews that vouch for its good taste, affordable pricing, added health benefits, and overall efficacy in strength management.
How To Prepare
Mix one scoop (34 g) of this protein powder with 6 fl. oz. of water, milk, fruit juice, or any other healthy beverage.
When To Drink
Take it as a post-workout shake to enhance muscle recovery.
- Available in different flavors
- Easy to digest
- Not suitable for people with lactose intolerance
6. Best Low-Calorie Formula:Quest Nutrition Protein Powder
Quest Nutrition Protein Powder is a delicious naturally flavored protein supplement that provides 30 g of protein, 2 g of carbs, and 160 kcal of energy per serving. It is made with a milk protein concentrate with 9 essential amino acids. This protein supplement not only helps in muscle building but also provides energy and stamina throughout the day. Watch this review to know more about the Quest Nutrition Protein Powder.
How To Prepare
Mix 2 scoops of this protein powder with 6 oz. of water, milk, or any other beverage. You can blend it with slices of fruits and ice cubes for better taste.
When To Drink
It can be taken between meals for stamina and energy.
- Available in different flavors
- Low-calorie
- Low-fat
- No added sugar
- Not suitable for people with lactose intolerance
7. Best For Replenishing Glycogen Levels:MuscleTech Mass Tech Scientifically Superior Mass Gainer
MuscleTech Mass Gainer Protein Powder provides optimum protein and calories to make you gain weight. It is an advanced formula packed with 80 g of a fast, medium, slow-digesting protein, 1010 kcal of energy, and 155 g of carbs per serving. It helps you gain muscle mass, build strength, and increase the size of your muscles by breaking the muscle-growth plateau.
This formula’s protein content supplies 8 g of L-leucine and 17 g of branched-chain amino acids when mixed with 2 cups of skimmed milk. It also provides 10 g of creatine per serving, which boosts your physical performance in short to high-intensity workout.
The carbohydrate formula in this mass gainer shake helps build muscle strength post-workout, reduces muscle fatigue, and replenishes glycogen stores. Reviews online assert that the product improves muscle strength from within and offers visible results in muscle gain.
How To Prepare
Mix 5 scoops (1 serving) of this protein powder with 16 fl. oz. of water or skim milk and blend well.
When To Drink
On workout days, take this protein shake during or after training. On non-workout days, either take it between meals or as an early morning shake to fill up your stomach.
- Available in different flavors
- Easy to digest
- Does not make you feel bloated
- Not suitable for people with lactose intolerance
8. Best For Weight Gain:BSN True-Mass 1200 Protein Powder
BSN True-Mass 1200 Protein Powder is a great weight-gain powder that delivers high-quality calories to help your grow. Its ultra-premium protein and carb matrix helps build strength and stamina. It is the easiest way to add some extra protein while trying to bulk up in the gym.
True-Mass 1200 contains 50 g of protein, 25 g of essential amino acids, 215 g of high-quality carbs, and 1220 kcal of energy. It is made of whey protein concentrate, calcium caseinate, milk protein isolate, whey protein isolate, micellar casein, hydrolyzed whey protein, egg whites, and glutamine peptides. The branched-chain amino acids (11 g/serving) and other non-essential amino acids in it help build muscle mass and protect it from wear and tear.
How To Prepare
Mix 3 scoops of BSN True-Mass 1200 protein powder with 6 fl.oz. of water, milk, or any other healthy beverage. Shake it well.
When To Drink
Drink it between meals or as a post-workout drink.
- Delicious taste
- Easy to digest
- Available in different flavors
- Not suitable for people with lactose intolerance
9. Best Gluten-Free Formula:Great Lakes Gelatin Co. Collagen Hydrolysate
Great Lakes Gelatin Co. Collagen Hydrolysate is made of hydrolyzed collagen and a combination of amino acids. It contains 45 kcal of energy, 11 g of protein, and 12 g of collagen hydrolysate per serving. This protein drink formula not only improves post-workout recovery but also supports joint health. It also promotes healthy skin and hair.
How To Prepare
Mix two scoops (12 g) of this collagen hydrolysate powder mix with any beverage like tea, coffee, juice, or smoothie.
When To Drink
You can drink this protein shake between meals two times a day.
- Derived from grass-fed and pasture-raised animals
- Keto-certified
- Paleo-friendly
- Gluten-free
- Kosher
- Non-GMO
- Low-calorie formula
10. Best For Daily Intake:MuscleTech Nitro Tech Whey Isolate Lean Muscle Builder
MuscleTech Nitro Tech Whey Isolate Lean Muscle Builder is a scientifically engineered whey protein formula that is enhanced with creatine to increase lean muscle mass and add some extra protein to your healthy diet plan. It is formulated with 30 g of whey isolates and peptides, 3 g of creatine, 6.9 g of branched-chain amino acids, and 5.9 g of glutamine per serving for improved muscle recovery, performance, and strength. It is a low-calorie formula with only 4 g of carbs and not more than 2.5 grams of fat per scoop.
How To Prepare
Add 1 scoop of this protein powder to 6 oz. of water or skim milk and shake well in a shaker until it dissolves completely.
When To Drink
Take this weight-gain shake between meals or before or after a workout.
- Helps build more muscle mass
- Easy to digest
- Tested for quality and purity
- Less fat, carbs, and lactose
- Not suitable for people with lactose intolerance
11. Best High-Protein Formula: Optimum Nutrition (ON) Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder
Optimum Nutrition (ON) Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder is a natural sugar-containing low-calorie, low-carb, low-fat, and high-protein whey supplement for strengthening muscle mass. Its main ingredient is whey protein, which is responsible for building and maintaining muscle strength.
This drink for weight gain is a blend of whey protein isolates, whey protein concentrate, and whey peptides. It also contains 4 g of glutamine and glutamic acid per serving along with 5 g of naturally occurring branched-chain amino acids – leucine, isoleucine, and valine – in each serving. Reviewers are impressed with its texture, flavorful taste, and affordability.
How To Prepare
Mix 1 scoop (32 g) of this protein supplement in 6-8 fl.oz. of water, milk, or other beverage of your choice.
When To Drink
Drink it 30-60 minutes after a workout or enjoy it as a snack in your balanced high-protein diet regimen.
- Available in different flavors
- Gluten-free
- Low-calorie weight gain supplement
- Contains soy
- Not suitable for people with lactose intolerance
12. Best For Lactose Intolerance: Naked Pea 100% Premium Protein Isolate
Naked Pea 100% Premium Protein Isolate is a 100 % vegetarian made by extracting pea protein from yellow split peas. It contains 27 g of protein, 5.7 g of branched-chain amino acids, 9 essential amino acids, 2 grams of carb, and 2 grams of sugar along with 12 kcal of energy per serving to support muscle growth and recovery.
It is an excellent protein supplement for underweight individuals and especially for vegetarians to gain weight. It is also suitable for people with lactose intolerance or those following a gluten-free diet.
How To Prepare
Add 2 scoops of this protein isolate powder to 6-10 oz. of water or any other beverage and mix well for about 30-40 seconds.
When To Drink
Take this weight gain protein smoothie between meals.
- 100% vegan
- Gluten-free
- Suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance
- Possible side effects not listed
You may be familiar with store-bought protein powders. But, have you ever wondered if you can make protein shakes with natural ingredients? Find out more in the next section.
What To Look For While Buying Protein Shakes For Women
- Ingredients: When you buy packaged food, you always risk consuming more than you intend. Similarly, many protein powders are formulated with additives – preservatives, thickeners, and artificial sweeteners. So, take a thorough look at the ingredients to make sure that you are well aware of what you are putting in your body. Also, according to the needs of your health goal, body sensitivity, and lifestyle choices, you may prefer a certain type of protein like whey, casein, soy, hemp, or brown rice.
- Purpose: Protein powders are specially made to complement various fitness goals or as meal replacements. Some powders are made for rapid weight gain, some for muscle gain, and some for weight loss. While some protein shakes meant for senior citizens to gain weight are kinder to their digestive system and kidneys, others fit into a diabetic diet. So, do your research and pick a product that will suit you the best. You can also seek the expert perspective of your nutritionist for the best choice!
- Taste: Fitness, health, and diet all become harder if the taste is not agreeable. Some people add fruits to their protein shakes, while others buy sweetened formulas. If you are looking for a protein shake for teenagers to gain weight, you can find healthier alternatives that come in different flavors and taste good without any added sugar.
Homemade Protein Shakes For Weight Gain
Homemade protein shakes are made from all-natural sources of protein that are essential to building your muscles.
If you do not want to consume commercial protein shakes, you can make your own homemade weight gain shakes easily as a pre- or post-workout drink. Follow these recipes to get better results.
The reviews above might have given you a fair idea of what makes a good protein powder for women. However, we have discussed these factors in detail below. Take a look!
The Bottom Line
Gyms, workouts, or exercises help to strengthen the muscles and witness visible personal transformation in terms of weight and physique. But sometimes, an active lifestyle and exercising will not be sufficient to boost your muscles. Your body needs weight gain protein powders and protein shakes to build muscle mass. For individuals looking to gain mass and muscle, the Optimum Nutrition (ON) Serious Mass Protein Powder Supplement and Dymatize Super Mass Gainer High Protein & Carb Blend are great options. For plant-based options, the Orgain Organic Protein Plant-Based Protein Powder is an excellent choice. The products listed above are loaded with vitamins and minerals, providing your body with the required energy. Some of the best protein shakes for weight gain are required to be consumed post-workout, while some should be taken between meals. It is essential to consume protein shakes loaded with pea, whey, or casein protein powder as they help in muscle recovery and invigorate the muscles. However, it would be great to consult an experienced physician or a fitness coach before consuming the protein shakes after your workouts. Additionally, read in-depth reviews of products and supplements and invest in those that will help you achieve real results!
Why Trust Stylecraze?
Aditi Naskar has a diploma in health and wellness and loves to write well-researched articles on fitness. Besides physical training, you need the best protein shakes that add bulk to your muscles. After going through multiple user feedback on trusted online platforms and reading the product specifications, she has curated this list. The recommended protein powders have no added sugar, are available in different flavors and are easy to digest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do protein shakes make you fat?
No, protein shakes help you build muscle strength and recover from muscle wear and tear. You need to combine them with proper exercise training.
Are weight-gain shakes healthy?
Yes, weight-gain shakes are healthy when taken in combination with a regular exercise routine. You also need to eat a balanced diet to gain weight the healthy way.
Will protein shakes make me gain weight if I don’t exercise?
Yes, there is a possibility that you may put on a few kilos if you do not work out when consuming protein shakes. To maintain a healthy weight and muscle, a combination of both is required.
Can I drink protein shakes without working out?
Certain proteins such as whey can lead to liver damage if you don’t exercise enough. However, consuming a protein shake on a rest day is absolutely okay as long as you follow an active lifestyle on most days.
When should I drink protein shakes?
To get the best results, it is recommended that you consume your protein shake 15-60 minutes post-workout.
How long does it take for a protein powder to work?
It usually takes about 6 weeks for a protein powder to start showing its effect on your body.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
- Volek, Jeff S et al. “Whey protein supplementation during resistance training augments lean body mass.” Journal of the American College of Nutritionvol. 32,2 (2013): 122-35. doi:10.1080/07315724.2013.793580
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24015719/ - 15 Best Homemade Protein Shakes To Build Muscle
- Top 10 Weight Gain Products Available In India
- 15 Homemade Protein Shakes – Healthy & Tasty 5-Min Recipes
- 10 Best Protein Powders For Women
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