8 Best Protein Powders for Weight Gain in 2024
Reviewed by: Jacek Szymanowski (Certified Nutritionist, S&C specialist, M.Sc.Eng. Biotechnology)
Are you on a journey to gain weight and build muscle? If so, finding the best protein powder to gain weight can be a game-changer. In this blog, we explore and review the seven best weight gain protein powders. These powders have been carefully selected based on their macronutrient breakdown, taste, nutrition label transparency, fat content transparency, mixability, value for money, and unique features that set them apart from the competition.
Whether you’re an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or simply looking to add some healthy weight, this comprehensive review will help you make an informed choice and find the perfect protein supplements for weight gain. Let’s dive in and find the best protein shakes for weight gain that will take your fitness journey to the next level!
In a hurry?
In a hurry and can’t keep reading? How about you check out the Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate.
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is a top-tier protein supplement known for its exceptional quality, macronutrient content, label transparency, and easy mixability, making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking a high-quality protein source to support their muscle growth and fitness goals.
Our team of certified nutritionists and professional athletes has reviewed 40 products for this article, and narrowed it down to 8 of the best ones. We’ve spent 7 weeks testing most of these products out, and we’ve based our evaluations on 6 main parameters. We’ve also examined hundreds of online reviews. Feel free to share your experiences with us because we’re regularly updating our list.
Top 8 Best Protein Powders for Weight Gain Reviewed
- Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate – Top Pick
- Jacked Factory Authentic Whey – Runner-Up
- Huge Isolate – The Most Calorie-Dense
- Legion Whey+ – Best Without Artificial Sweeteners
- Myprotein Impact Whey Protein – Multi-Flavored
- Promix Whey Protein Powder – Pure and Affordable
- Future Kind Vegan Protein Powder – Best Vegan
- Optimum Nutrition Platinum Hydrowhey – Proven Quality From the Previous Century
Product | Total | Macronutrient Breakdown | Taste/ Flavor | Nutrition Label Transparency | Fat Content Transparency | Mixability | Price/ Quality |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Transparent Labs | 59 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 |
Jacked Factory | 58.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
Huge Isolate | 58 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 |
Legion | 57.5 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9.5 | 9 |
Myprotein | 57.5 | 9.5 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 |
Promix | 57.5 | 9.5 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 10 |
Future Kind | 56 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 |
Optimum Nutrition | 56 | 10 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 8.5 | 8.5 |
1. Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
- Diet type: Gaining muscle, Recovery, (also Cutting)
- Suitable for vegans: No
- Protein source: Whey isolate
- Serving size: 32-34,5 g
- Price per serving: ~$1.8 (4LB opt)
- Protein-by-weight ratio (%): 81-87%
- Proteins: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 0-3 grams (depends on flavor)
- Fat: 0-1 gram (depends on flavor)
- Sugar: <1g
- Company founded: 2015
- Recommended by athletes: Simon Chang, Luke Vokey, Marie Gabriel
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is a top-tier protein supplement that sets itself apart from competitors through its exceptional quality, macronutrient content, label transparency and easy mixability. This product is an ideal choice for individuals seeking a high-quality protein source to support their muscle growth and overall fitness goals.
Whey Protein Isolate boasts an impressive macronutrient profile. Each serving provides 28 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for muscle recovery and growth. With zero grams of carbohydrates and fat, it helps individuals maintain a low-carb or low-fat diet while meeting their protein needs.
This brand offers a range of delicious flavors for their protein powders, including Chocolate, Vanilla, and Strawberry. These flavors are carefully formulated to provide a satisfying and enjoyable taste experience, making it easier to incorporate into daily routines without feeling like a chore. Furthermore, its effortless mixability provides a smooth and enjoyable texture making it even more desirable to consume daily.
Transparent Labs takes pride in its commitment to transparency. They provide detailed information about the product’s ingredients and nutritional content. Their products have an Informed Choice Cetrification, which is a global standard in sports nutrition quality control. This transparency enables consumers to make informed choices and understand exactly what they are consuming. With zero grams of fat per serving, it caters to individuals looking to minimize their fat intake while focusing on protein consumption.
While Transparent Labs might seem pricey for those on a budget, it positions its product as a premium option and provides good value for money. The high protein content, combined with the product’s quality and transparency, justifies the slightly higher price point compared to some competitors. Additionally, the absence of artificial sweeteners, food dyes, gluten, and preservatives enhances its value, ensuring users get the most out of each serving.
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is a premium protein supplement known for its high-quality protein content, label transparency, and trustworthiness, making it a top choice for fitness enthusiasts.
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2. Jacked Factory Authentic Whey – Runner-Up
- Diet type: Gaining muscle, Recovery, (also Cutting)
- Suitable for vegans: No
- Protein source: Whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate
- Serving size: 31g
- Price per serving: ~$1.33
- Protein-by-weight ratio (%): 77.5
- Proteins: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fat: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Company founded: 2006
- Recommended by athletes: John Haack, Danilo Hunter Sipovac, Michael AJ Derksen
Jacked Factory Authentic Whey Protein is a high-quality protein supplement that offers a great amino acid profile and digestive enzymes that helps with rapid absorption. This protein powder excels in its macronutrient content, variety of taste and flavor, label transparency and affordability. It offers an attractive choice for individuals seeking a premium protein supplement to support their fitness journey while not burdening their pockets too much.
Jacked Factory Whey Protein delivers a well-balanced macronutrient profile. Each serving provides 24 grams of protein, which supports muscle recovery and growth. With only 1 gram of carbohydrates and 2 grams of fat, it allows for flexible dietary customization, including low-carb or low-fat diets.
One of the highlights of Jacked Factory Authentic Whey Protein is its outstanding taste and flavor. Available in delectable options such as Chocolate Ice Cream, Vanilla Milkshake, and Cookies & Cream, the flavors are rich and satisfying, making it enjoyable to consume and helping users look forward to their protein shake.
Effortless mixability also helps to enjoy taste and flavor without jeopardizing the whole experience. This protein mixes smoothly and easily with liquids, creating a creamy and enjoyable texture. Whether mixed with water, milk, or other preferred beverages, it dissolves well without clumps or residue.
Another convenient trait of Jacked Factory protein powder is that it prioritizes nutrition label transparency. The product provides detailed information about its ingredients and nutritional content, ensuring consumers are well-informed about what they are consuming. This transparency helps users make informed choices and align their dietary needs with their fitness goals.
Jacked Factory Authentic Whey Protein is a high-quality and affordable protein supplement with great taste and label transparency, making it an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts seeking a satisfying and effective protein source.
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3. Huge Isolate
- Diet type: Gaining muscle, Recovery, (also Cutting)
- Suitable for vegans: No
- Protein source: Whey protein isolate
- Serving size: 38g
- Price per serving: ~$2
- Protein-by-weight ratio (%): 79
- Proteins: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 3.5g
- Fat: 1g
- Sugar: <1g
- Company founded: 2019
- Recommended by athletes: Nick Nguyen, Logan Daman, Maryn Georgia
Huge Isolate Protein from Huge Supplements is a high-quality protein powder that offers a powerful blend of features. With balanced macronutrient content, unique flavor and excellent mixability Huge isolate is a go-to option for numerous athletes as well as usual people to optimize their fitness and nutrition goals. This is the highest calorie protein powder out of the product reviewed in this article.
Huge Isolate Protein claims an impressive macronutrient profile. Each serving provides 30 grams of protein, supporting muscle recovery and growth. With 3.5 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of fat, it offers a good source of protein that allows you the flexibility to adjust to your diet.
The main difficulty during weight gain is consuming enough protein, which protein powder helps to solve. And adjusting the carbohydrate, fat and total calorie content is much easier. For example, you can use caloric beverages (milk, juices) for your protein shake if you don't have enough calories.
The taste of Huge Isolate Protein is extraordinary with uncommon flavor or Choco Madness and Fruity Cereal. The seamless mixability ensures a convenient and enjoyable experience with every shake. Whether blended with water, milk, or other preferred beverages, it dissolves quickly with no extra effort needed.
The product provides detailed information about its ingredients and nutritional content, allowing consumers to make informed choices and understand precisely what they are consuming.
Detailed information on its fat, carbs and additives content gives a sense of honesty. Further, disclaimer on possible allergen contamination shows the extra care from the company’s side.
Huge Isolate Protein offers competitive pricing for their product. Despite the high-quality ingredients, it might feel costly and unaffordable for some people. Although, its unique flavor,clean labeling and a high dose of protein in each serving (which affects the price) might overpower the price in favor of the product.
Huge Isolate Protein from Huge Supplements is a high-quality and uniquely flavored protein powder with balanced macronutrients and excellent mixability, making it a top choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts aiming to optimize their nutrition.
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4. Legion Whey+
- Diet type: Gaining Muscle, Recovery, (also Cutting)
- Suitable for vegans: No
- Protein source: Whey Isolate
- Serving size: 28.9g
- Price per serving: ~$1.54
- Protein-by-weight ratio (%): 76%
- Proteins: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Company founded: 2014
- Recommended by athletes: Gage Clark, Grant Tinsley, Machaela Brabham
If you’re after a high-quality, natural protein powder, look no further than Legion’s Whey+ supplement. Note that we’ll be focusing on the Strawberry Banana and French Vanilla flavors, as they have the best overall macro breakdowns. However, Legion has 6 total flavors if you’re after something else.
Legion offers 22g of protein per serving, with 2g of carbs and 0g of fat. While this isn’t as high protein compared to some of the higher spots on our list, it’s still a decent amount per serving.
The reason we’ve placed this supplement so high is its high-quality formula. Similar to Transparent Labs, Legion is made with all-natural ingredients, as well as being sourced from grass-fed dairy. It’s also Labdoor tested for purity, so you can be confident you’re getting a high-quality product.
There’s little to complain about when it comes to Legion’s product. The main reason it falls slightly lower on our list is that its protein content is significantly lower than products like Transparent Labs and Huge. However, it is also slightly cheaper than both of those options, so consider this a high-quality pick that’s still relatively budget-friendly.
Legion's Whey+ offers quality natural protein powder in flavors like Strawberry Banana and French Vanilla, with good macros, sourced from grass-fed dairy, and budget-friendly despite slightly lower protein.
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5. Myprotein Impact Whey Protein – Multi-Flavored
- Diet type: Gaining muscle, Recovery, (also Cutting)
- Suitable for vegans: No
- Protein source: Whey protein concentrate
- Serving size: 25g
- Price per serving: ~$1.44
- Protein-by-weight ratio (%): 84
- Proteins: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fat: 1.9g
- Sugar: 1g
- Company founded: 2004
- Recommended by athletes: Liam Harrold, Jamie Elkin, Kyla Gancayco
MyProtein Impact Whey Protein is a highly regarded protein supplement that offers a range of benefits to support your fitness goals. With its macronutrient content, enticing taste and flavor options, nutrition label transparency it is a trusted choice for individuals seeking to fuel their fitness journey. Its extensive flavor range and brand reputation set it apart from competitors, making it a go-to option for protein supplementation.
Whey Protein provides a balanced macronutrient profile. Each serving contains 21 grams of protein, offering ample support for muscle recovery and development. With 1 gram of carbohydrates and only 1.9 grams of fat, it enables individuals to tailor their protein intake while managing their overall macronutrient goals.
MyProtein Impact Whey Protein boasts an extensive range of flavors, including classics like Chocolate Smooth, Vanilla, and Strawberry Cream. The taste and flavor options have garnered positive reviews, ensuring a pleasurable experience while consuming protein shakes. Impact Whey Protein mixes well, resulting in a smooth and lump-free texture. Whether mixed with water, milk, or other preferred liquids, it blends easily to create a pleasant consistency for a hassle-free shake experience.
MyProtein is committed to providing transparency regarding the ingredients and nutritional content of its products. Its label provides clear information for each flavored product separately, allowing consumers to make informed decisions and understand the nutrients they are consuming.
MyProtein Impact Whey Protein is a popular protein supplement known for its balanced macronutrients, delicious flavor options, and label transparency, making it a trusted choice among fitness enthusiasts aiming to achieve fitness goals.
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6. Promix Whey Protein Powder – Pure and Affordable
- Diet type: Gaining muscle, Recovery, (also Cutting)
- Suitable for vegans: No
- Protein source: Whey protein concentrate
- Serving size: 31g
- Price per serving: ~$0.93
- Protein-by-weight ratio (%): 80
- Proteins: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 1.5g
- Sugar: 1g
- Company founded: 2011
- Recommended by athletes: Hollis Tuttle, Shaun O’Leary, Vanessa McCoy-Nelson
Promix Nutrition Unflavored Whey Protein Powder is a versatile and high-quality protein supplement that stands out for its macronutrient breakdown and purity. Unique unflavored option offers an appealing choice for individuals seeking a customizable and high-quality protein powder to support their fitness and nutrition goals.
Promix Whey Protein Powder provides a clean and straightforward macronutrient profile. Each serving offers 25 grams of protein, making it an effective choice for muscle recovery and growth. With fairly low carbohydrates (3 grams) and fat (1.5 grams), it allows for customization within various dietary plans.
As an unflavored protein powder, Promix Nutrition focuses on purity rather than taste and flavor. This allows users to have the flexibility to mix it with their preferred beverages or incorporate it into recipes without altering the flavor profile. It offers a neutral taste that blends seamlessly with other ingredients.
Promix Nutrition takes pride in its commitment to nutrition label transparency. The product provides clear and comprehensive information about its ingredients and nutritional content.
Promix mixes smoothly and easily, creating a creamy texture when blended with liquids. It's fine powder consistency allows for easy incorporation into shakes, smoothies, or other recipes without clumping or residue.
Promix Unflavored Whey Protein Powder offers excellent value for money, delivering a high-quality protein source at a competitive price. It differentiates itself by providing a pure, unflavored option, allowing users to customize their protein intake according to their specific taste preferences and dietary needs.
Promix Nutrition Whey Protein Powder is a versatile and pure protein supplement, offering a clean macronutrient profile and label transparency, making it an excellent choice for individuals seeking a customizable and high-quality protein.
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7. Future Kind Vegan Protein Powder – Best Vegan
- Diet type: Gaining Muscle, Recovery, (also Cutting)
- Suitable for vegans: Yes
- Protein source: Pea Protein Isolate & Organic Hemp Protein
- Serving size: 30g
- Price per serving: ~$2.00
- Protein-by-weight ratio (%): 66%
- Proteins: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 3g
- Sugar: 0g
- Company founded: 2019
- Recommended by athletes: Dylan J Young, Ali Figz
Next up, we have the first and only vegan option on our list from Future Kind. While this is the best vegan protein available in our opinion, it still has several shortcomings when compared to the dairy-based protein powders we’ve covered already.
First, like most vegan proteins, this has a slightly lower protein content than most dairy-based powders. You’ll be getting 20g of protein per serving, along with 3g of fat, and 4g of carbs. While this is solid for a vegan shake, it’s much lower than many whey-based options which have ~30g of protein per serving.
However, this is also a very high-quality formula. On top of being entirely organic, Future Kind does not contain any artificial ingredients. As they proudly state on their website, this is one of the “cleanest plant-based protein powders” available.
Perhaps the biggest downside to Future Kind’s product is its price. Especially considering the low protein content, the price may be difficult for some to justify. There are plenty of vegan protein powders available that are significantly cheaper than this with similar macro breakdowns. However, considering the quality of the formula here, we believe the higher price is still justified.
Future Kind shines as the exclusive vegan choice, lauded for its quality despite a slightly lower protein content than dairy-based options, boasting an entirely organic, artificial ingredient-free formula, albeit at a premium price.
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8. Optimum Nutrition Platinum Hydrowhey – Proven Quality From the Previous Century
- Diet type: Gaining muscle, Recovery
- Suitable for vegans: No
- Protein source: Hydrolyzed whey protein isolate
- Serving size: 39g
- Price per serving: ~$2.2
- Protein-by-weight ratio (%): 77
- Proteins: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Company founded: 1986
- Recommended by athletes: Jason Deng, Kerstin Franz-Genç, Zac Roth
Optimum Nutrition Platinum HydroWhey is a premium protein powder that stands out for its hydrolyzed nature, that ensures quick digestion. It thrives on its macronutrient breakdown and has proven the quality since 1986. With more than 35 years history the company has much to offer for those looking for a quality protein powder to incorporate in their fitness journey.
Platinum HydroWhey delivers an impressive macronutrient profile. Each serving provides 30 grams of protein, derived from hydrolyzed whey protein isolates. This fast-absorbing protein source supports optimal muscle recovery and growth. With only 3 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of fat, it enables precise control over macronutrient intake.
Optimum Nutrition prioritizes nutrition label transparency. The Platinum HydroWhey product provides detailed information about its ingredients and nutritional content. This transparency empowers consumers to make informed decisions about their dietary choices.
Although the portion size is relatively higher than its competitors, Platinum HydroWhey mixes easily and smoothly due to its hydrolyzed nature, resulting in a velvety texture. Whether blended with water or your preferred liquid, it dissolves effortlessly.
While HydroWhey is positioned as a premium product and uses hydrolyzation technique in production, the product is relatively highly priced when compared to other products reviewed.
Although this might not be a best fit for everyone, its hydrolyzed whey protein isolate formulation sets it apart, as this form of protein is broken down into smaller peptides, making it faster absorbing and ideal for post-workout recovery. Additionally, the product undergoes rigorous quality testing and is known for its high manufacturing standards.
Optimum Nutrition Platinum HydroWhey is a premium protein powder with fast absorption and an impressive macronutrient profile, making it an excellent choice for muscle recovery and growth in your fitness journey.
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Experts Who Contributed To This Article
6 years of Oly Lifting & Training experience
20 years of Oly Lifting & Training experience
Professional Nutritionist and Certified Coach
Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)
Why Do Athletes Eat Protein for Weight Gain?
Athletes often incorporate protein into their diets for weight gain due to several key benefits it provides. In summary, athletes consume protein for weight gain because it promotes muscle growth and repair, enhances strength and power, and aids in post-workout recovery. These benefits are crucial for athletes looking to increase their muscle mass, improve their performance, and ensure optimal training outcomes.
✅ Muscle Growth and Repair
Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissues. Athletes engaging in weight gain programs aim to increase muscle mass, and protein plays a crucial role in promoting muscle growth. Consuming adequate protein supports the synthesis of new muscle proteins, helping athletes achieve their weight gain goals and develop a stronger and more robust physique.
✅ Increased Strength and Power
Protein consumption is closely linked to improvements in strength and power. Athletes who aim to gain weight often engage in strength training exercises to build muscle mass. Protein provides the necessary amino acids that serve as building blocks for muscle protein synthesis, leading to enhanced muscular strength and power. By ensuring sufficient protein intake, athletes can support their training efforts and optimize their weight gain progress.
Tanya Shaiko wanted to add:
"It's important to balance your diet by increasing your calorie intake. For gaining mass, I recommend engaging in heavy weightlifting and using exercise routines that target all muscle groups. However, I don't consume protein shakes myself."
✅ Enhanced Recovery and Injury Prevention
Intense physical activity can place significant stress on the body, leading to muscle damage and fatigue. Protein plays a vital role in post-workout recovery and injury prevention. It aids in repairing damaged muscle fibers, reducing muscle soreness, and accelerating recovery time. Adequate protein intake supports the body's ability to bounce back from intense training sessions, allowing athletes to maintain a consistent training schedule and minimize the risk of injuries.
How Much Protein Do I Need a Day?
The recommended daily protein intake varies depending on factors such as age, sex, weight, activity level, and overall health goals. The general guideline is as follows:
- Sedentary individuals: 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight (or 0.36 grams per pound).
- Active individuals: 1.2 to 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight (or 0.54 to 1 gram per pound).
- Athletes and strength training individuals: 1.4 to 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight (or 0.64 to 1 gram per pound).
- Special circumstances: Pregnancy, lactation, and recovery from illness or injury may warrant higher protein needs. Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to determine specific protein requirements in these cases.
It is important to consider personal factors and goals when determining your protein intake. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance based on your unique circumstances.
Ernesto Mendez adviced:
"To gain weight in a healthy and sustained way, add protein powder to a well-rounded approach that includes a balanced diet, a caloric surplus, strength training, nutrient-dense meals, proper hydration, and adequate rest. Using protein powder, combined with a calorie surplus and appropriate strength training, may lead to a gain of 0.5 to 2 pounds (0.2 to 0.9 kilograms) of lean muscle mass per month."
Also keep in mind that overconsuming protein won’t necessarily help you with weight gain. On the contrary, an excessive amount of protein might hamper muscle growth and induce weight loss, as well as put an extra stress on your metabolic system. So aim for the right amount of protein that suits your lifestyle and always follow the instructions on the protein powder label.
What to Look For in Protein Powders for Weight Gain?
When selecting protein for gaining weight, it's important to consider a few characteristics. Ideally the product should contain high protein value (>80% protein-per-serving ratio) and calorie density.
Additionally, when choosing the best protein to gain weight it's essential to consider other factors such as taste and flavor options, the source of protein (e.g., whey, casein, plant-based), ingredient quality, potential food allergens or sensitivities, and overall dietary preferences.
It's always beneficial to read product labels, check for third-party testing or certifications, and consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized recommendations based on your specific weight gain goals and dietary needs.
1. High Protein Content
Look for protein powders that provide a high protein content per serving. Aim for a product that offers at least 20 grams or more of protein per serving. This will ensure that you're getting an adequate amount of protein to support muscle growth and weight gain.
2. Calorie Density
To promote weight gain, it is often recommended to opt for a high calorie protein powder. However, it's worth remembering that too many calories can lead to excess fat storage rather than muscle mass.
Therefore, when choosing a protein powder, you should focus primarily on the high protein content of each serving, because carbohydrates and fats are much easier to obtain from a normal diet.
It's beneficial to opt for protein powders that provide about 120-130 kcal per serving and a reasonably high dose of protein, depending on your specific caloric needs and weight gain goals. If you need more calories, it's easy to fix: use milk or juices for your protein shakes, add some oatmeal cookies, which will supplement your diet not only with carbs but also with healthy fiber.
Unless you are an athlete who takes rigorous resistance exercise training do not increase your calorie intake with more than 400-500 kcal.
3. Clean Labeling
Make sure you read the label in advance and understand the macronutrient content displayed on it. Pay attention to what information the company displays on the label, whether it contains any artificial additives or food allergens that might be relevant to you. Also, some producers may include the information about third-party certification or testing which could be a sign of good reputation and clean production.
Simple Tips for Increasing the Calorie Content of Protein Shakes
If you’re looking to put on weight, you’ll need to focus on more than just protein intake. You also need to ensure you’re eating enough to put yourself in a caloric surplus and support weight gain. Simply adding a scoop of protein into your diet usually won’t be enough! Below we’ll be covering several ideas to maximize the calorie content of your protein shakes and help you reach an optimal caloric surplus every day.
Our expert Dina Al-Rubaye, shared her tips for effective weight gain:
"Protein powders designed for weight gain, such as Optimum Nutrition, offer increased calories with added carbs and fats. To support weight gain, I recommend boosting daily intake of protein, carbs, and fats, along with incorporating full-fat products like whole milk and yogurt. Additional strategies include frequent eating, calorie-dense options like juices and nut butter, and engaging in resistance training for muscle gain. Combining protein powders with carbs and fats, and adding olive oil and avocados to meals, are effective approaches for achieving successful weight gain."
1. Mix with Milk Instead of Water
One of the easiest ways to boost the calorie content (and flavor!) of your protein shakes is to mix with milk instead of water. By mixing a scoop of protein with 1-2 cups of milk, you can easily add 100-200+ calories to your shake.
If you’re using plant-based milk, keep in mind that calorie content can vary greatly. Something like soy milk will have significantly more calories and protein compared to almond or oat milk for example. So be sure you’re checking nutritional labels to stay in line with your goals!
Especially when combined with the points below, this is a great way to maximize the calorie intake of any protein shakes you’re making!
2. Add Peanut Butter
Another excellent way to add calories to a protein shake is to blend it with a scoop of peanut butter. A single tablespoon of peanut butter has close to 200 kcal, so you can easily add it to your shake and there you go - with a scoop of protein powder and water you already have a minimum 300 kcal which added to your maintenance will result in a nice surplus.
The calories here are mostly from fat, which can add up quickly if you’re not careful. If you’re adding peanut butter to your shakes, we recommend weighing it out to make sure you’re not taking in more calories than you think! Peanut butter will also quickly thicken up a shake, so you may need to use more milk than usual if you’re using this strategy.
Sergiy Putsov also added some of his own tips:
"For weight gain, in addition to consistent weight training, I recommend increasing calorie intake through nutrient-dense foods like lean meats, nuts, legumes, whole grains, and healthy fats, along with supplements like creatine and protein powder."
3. Mix with Greek Yogurt
Finally, a great way to boost the protein content of a shake is with Greek yogurt. A 200g cup of Greek yogurt can have around 150 calories and up to 20g of protein. You can use low-fat or full-fat yogurt depending on how many extra calories you want to add to your shake!
This will add a rich, creamy texture to the shakes you make, as well as giving it some nice flavor. As a bonus, combine Greek yogurt with peanut butter in your protein shakes to maximize protein and caloric intake. By utilizing all the tips listed above, you can easily make a protein shake that’s 1000+ calories, which is perfect for hard gainers.
FAQ
Will I Gain Weight if I Eat Protein?
Consuming protein alone will not automatically lead to weight gain. Weight gain occurs when there is a calorie surplus, meaning you consume more calories than you burn. Protein can contribute to weight gain if it is part of a balanced diet that provides a calorie surplus, along with adequate carbohydrates and fats.
Which Protein Powder Is Best for Weight Gain?
While there are many protein and mass gainers on the market that are high in carbs and calories, the best strategy is to focus on adequate protein intake and a slight increase in calories through healthy foods. Scroll up to view 7 best protein powders that could help you to gain weight.
How Can a Skinny Person Gain Weight Fast?
To gain weight quickly, a skinny person can focus on consuming a calorie surplus by increasing their overall caloric intake. One way to achieve this is by incorporating suitable protein powder into their diet and by engaging in strength training exercises to promote muscle growth.
Conclusion
To summarize, protein plays a vital role in weight gain for athletes as well as for individuals looking to increase muscle mass and body weight. It supports muscle growth, enhances strength and power, and aids in recovery. By selecting protein powders with high protein content, considering calorie density and overall macronutrient profile, and incorporating them into a well-rounded diet and exercise routine, individuals can optimize their weight gain journey. If you are also planning to gain muscle mass and increase your body weight a top pick of this review Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate might be worth checking out.
Remember, consistency and dedication are key on your weight gain journey, so stay committed and track your progress along the way to celebrate your successes. Leave a comment below to update us on your progress as well as celebrate your achievements.
Also read:
- Best Tasting Vanilla Protein Powder
- Best Protein Powder to Mix With Coffee
- Best Clean Protein Powder
- Best Cheap Protein Powder
- Best Organic Protein Powder
- Best Casein Protein Powder
- Protein Powder vs Protein Shake
- Whey Protein Isolate vs Concentrate
References:
- Ralf Jäger, Chad M Kerksick, Bill I Campbell "International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: protein and exercise" J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2017 Jun 20:14:20.
- Howard E. LeWine "How much protein do you need every day?" Harvard Health Publishing Logo June 22, 2023 https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/how-much-protein-do-you-need-every-day-201506188096
- Guoyao Wu "Dietary protein intake and human health" Royal Society of Chemistry 11th January 2016 https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content /articlehtml/2016/fo/c5fo01530h
- D. Enette Larson-Meyer "Weight Gain Recommendations for Athletes and Military Personnel: A Critical Review of the Evidence" https://shorturl.at/pHK29
- Stefan M Pasiakos "The Effects of Protein Supplements on Muscle Mass, Strength, and Aerobic and Anaerobic Power in Healthy Adults: A Systematic" August 2014 https://www.researchgate.net /publication/265175365 _The_Effects_of_Protein_ Supplements_on_ Muscle_Mass_Strength_ and_Aerobic_and_Anaerobic _Power_in_Healthy _Adults_A_Systematic_Review
Why Trust Us?
With over 20 years in Olympic Weightlifting, our team does its best to provide the audience with ultimate support and meet the needs and requirements of advanced athletes and professional lifters, as well as people who strive to open new opportunities and develop their physical capabilities with us.
All products we select are primarily approved and tested by the Olympic Weightlifting Champion Oleksii Torokhtiy. Under his guidance, we provide honest and reasonable assessments of the products we review by checking their characteristics, packaging, design, comfort and durability features, and general product rating. We select products from only high-quality and trusted sports brands, thus vouching for their quality.
The product testing process is described in more detail here
Author: Oleksandr Maksymenko
Certified Sports Nutritionist,
MSc Sports Dietetics
Specializing in: Weight management, Fitness / Sports nutrition
Oleksandr is a professional fitness nutritionist certified by the Fitness Professional Association (FPA). He follows the principles of evidence-based dietetics and fosters a healthy relationship with food in his clients, ensuring there are no strict prohibitions on their favorite foods or frequent lapses. His primary goal is not only to achieve results for you but also to sustain them over the long term, all while enjoying tasty and delicious food.
Reviewed by: Jacek Szymanowski
Certified Nutritionist,
M.Sc.Eng. Biotechnology
Performance architect,
Strength and Conditioning Specialist
With over 30 years of fighting experience, specialization in nutrition coaching for athletes, and expertise in metabolic health and dietary strategies, Jacek offers a comprehensive approach to optimizing your performance and well-being. Backed by a Master of Science degree in Biotechnology, Jacek remains at the forefront of scientific advancements, ensuring that his coaching is always evidence-based and up-to-date.
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