Top Notch Mass Gainers to Boost Muscle Mass in 2024
Top Notch Mass Gainers to Boost Muscle Mass in 2024
Individuals often rely on supplements known as mass gainers to boost their muscle mass growth. These supplements aid in supplying the additional calories required for muscle development.
Taking a closer look at top-rated mass gainers
Serving over 1,000 calories
- Natural ingredients champion:Raw Rev Gain | Jump to review
- Added vitamins and minerals winner:Optimum Nutrition Platinum Mass Gainer | Jump to review
- Best for vegetarians: Naked Nutrition Vegan Mass | Jump to review
- Superior in MCTs and BCAAs:MuscleTech Mass Tech | Jump to review
- High protein powerhouse:Universal Nutrition Real Gains | Jump to review
Serving less than 1,000 calories
- Natural complex carbs winner:Transparent Labs Mass Gainer | Jump to review
- High protein content champ:Optimum Nutrition GS Pro Gainer | Jump to review
- Ingredients from plants:Iron Vegan All-In-One | Jump to review
- Oxidative stress prevention ace:Muscle Pharm Combat Protein Powder | Jump to review
In both men and women, there can be variations in the types, quantities, and combinations of vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients required. Consequently, some companies formulate specialized supplements, protein powders, drinks, and energy bars. It's essential to consult a doctor or healthcare professional for personalized advice, to help in choosing a product tailored to an individual's needs and wellness goals.
Champion mass gainers surpassing 1,000 calories
1,250
Best for natural ingredients: Raw Rev Gain
50 g
- Cost: approximately $70
- Protein source: whey protein isolate, micellar casein, and egg albumin
- Carb source: organic waxy maize and organic tapioca starch
- Sugar source: sugar (from organic sugar cane)
- Calories per serving: 1,250
252 g
Raw Rev Gain is made with three main components: whey protein isolate, micellar casein, and egg albumin. Organic waxy maize and tapioca starch provide carbohydrates. This product is gluten-free, soy-free, and GMO-free. It does not contain artificial sweeteners, sweeteners, or aroma.
2.5 g
| Total calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat || --- | --- | --- | --- || 1,250 | 60 g | 220 g | 8 g |
PURCHASE NOW ON AMAZON### Advantages
- free of artificial substances
- supplies calcium and BCAAs
- unflavored, making it easy to integrate into beverages
- available in various flavor options
- utilizes organic waxy maize and tapioca starch for a cleaner source of complex carbohydrates
Disadvantages
- expensive
- pricey per serving
- excessive carbohydrates may be unsuitable for those building muscle with a 1-to-2 or 1-to-4 protein-to-carb ratio
- contains milk
Best for additional vitamins and minerals: Optimum Nutrition Platinum Mass Gainer
1,260
- Price: around $80
- Protein source: whey protein concentrate
- Carb source: maltodextrin
- Sugar source: sucralose
- Calories per serving: 1,250
50 g
Optimum Nutrition's platinum mass gainer in chocolate flavor might appeal to individuals interested in adding additional vitamins and minerals to their diet. Given its 1:5 protein-to-carbohydrate ratio, it may not suit those who prefer a higher protein content and fewer calories.
254 g
Key components include whey protein concentrate.
6 g
| Total calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat || --- | --- | --- | --- || 1,250 | 50 g | 220 g | 7 g |
PURCHASE NOW ON AMAZON### Pros
- does not contain recombinant bovine somatotropin (rBST) or growth hormones from cows
- includes 25 extra vitamins and minerals
- has a substantial number of positive online reviews
Cons
- contains synthetic flavors
- on the pricier side
- contains allergens such as dairy, corn, soy, and wheat
Best for vegetarians: Naked Nutrition Vegan Mass
1,230
- Cost: approximately $70
- Protein source: pea protein isolate and brown rice protein
- Carb source: organic tapioca maltodextrin
- Calories per serving: 1,230
50 g
This product combines pea protein isolate and brown rice protein with organic tapioca maltodextrin, making it suitable for vegetarians. Like other Naked Nutrition offerings, it is free of artificial sweeteners, flavors, colors, GMOs, soy, and gluten.
245 g
This gainer also provides calcium, iron, and potassium. An individual can obtain 36% of their DV of iron from a single serving, which may be beneficial for vegetarians.
4 g
The company suggests using this product in shakes or with fruit.
| Total calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat || --- | --- | --- | --- || 1,230 | 50 g | 245 g | 4 g |
PURCHASE NOW ON AMAZON### Advantages
- well-suited for vegetarians
- free from major allergens
- contains a complete amino acid profile
- provides high amounts of three essential nutrients
Disadvantages
- contains an elevated salt content
- number of servings is limited
- sugar, sodium, and calorie content differ for each flavor
1,220
Ideal for medium-chain triglycerides and BCAAs: BSN True-Mass 1200
50 g
- Cost: approximately $80
- Protein origin: whey protein concentrate, calcium caseinate, milk protein isolate, whey protein isolate, micellar casein, egg whites, hydrolyzed whey protein, and glutamine peptides
- Carb origin: rolled oats, maltodextrin
- Sweetener: sucralose
- Calories per serving: 1,220
215 g
True-Mass 1200 offers a 4-to-1 ratio of carbohydrates to protein and includes beneficial fats. The chocolate flavor edition incorporates components like whey protein concentrate, calcium caseinate, and egg albumin.
16 g
The product contains 12 grams of naturally occurring BCAAs per serving, along with medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) powder.
this product utilizes various protein sources and primarily uses rolled oats for carbohydrates.
It provides 40% and 35% of an individual's daily value (DV) for calcium and iron, respectively.
Nutritional breakdown
| Total calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat || --- | --- | --- | --- || 1,220 | 50 g | 215 g | 16 g |
Purchase at AMAZON
1,280 g
Strengths
52 g
- various protein sources used
- a single serving can cover 40% of an individual's daily calcium DV
- positive reviews online
- a larger quantity of servings compared to some other brands
245 g
Weaknesses
10 g
- allergens like egg, milk, and sunflower are present
- expense may be a concern
- some reviewers report a powerful, chalky, chemical aftertaste and a taste closer to wheat rather than chocolate
- other reviewers mention inadequate mixing with beverages
Suitable for high protein content: Dymatize Super Mass Gainer
- Cost: approximately $45
- Protein source: whey protein concentrate, milk protein isolate, whey protein isolate, whey protein hydrolysate, micellar casein
- Carb source: maltodextrin
- Sweetener: sucralose
- Calories per serving: 1,280
Dymatize presents this supplement as optimal for people classified as "hard gainers," or those with less-than-ideal metabolism and/or minimal time for intense muscle growth.
Aside from 52 grams of fast-, medium-, and slow-digesting proteins, this product incorporates 17 vitamins and minerals to support muscle recovery, along with balanced nutrition.
it can be purchased in Rich Chocolate and Gourmet Vanilla flavors.
790
| Total calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat || --- | --- | --- | --- || 1,280 | 52 g | 245 g | 10 g |
53 g
Pros
114 g
- reportedly beneficial for those with subpar muscle-growth potential
- contains an assortment of critical nutrients
- high in vitamins E and A
13 g
Cons
- a smaller quantity of servings
- provides more than a person's daily value for many nutrients
- contains allergens such as egg, sunflower, and soy
The best mass gainers with under 1,000 calories
Best for natural complex carbohydrates: Transparent Labs Mass Gainer
- Cost: $79.99
- Protein source: whey concentrate and creatine monohydrate
- Carb source: organic tapioca maltodextrin
- Sweetener: stevia
- Calories per serving: 790
The whey protein concentrate in this mass gainer is derived from 100% grass-fed cows, and the carbs consist of organic oats, tapioca, and sweet potato. The product also contains creatine monohydrate and natural sweeteners. It is available in two flavors: sweet vanilla and chocolate glaze donut.
650
Nutritional breakdown
60 g
| Total calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat || --- | --- | --- | --- || 790 | 53 g | 114 g | 13 g |
82 g
Our tester's viewpoint
9 g
“An effortless product to mix and features a delightful flavor profile. Sweet Vanilla was, as advertised, quite sweet, but could be overwhelming if consumed early in the morning. However, it was one of the most enjoyable mass gainers shakes I've had for an extended duration.
“Using two scoops as directed, combined with the recommended water amount instead of milk, resulted in an easy-to-carry or pre-workout meal substitute.
“Yes, I recommend this product. There are no artificial ingredients, and Transparent Labs prides itself on being straightforward about its product components. Readers can trust they're getting a high-quality product.”
– JaTory Reid, Senior Business Analyst
Shop at TRANSPARENT LABS
Strengths
720
- satisfies 10% and 30% of a person's daily value for potassium and calcium, respectively
- no artificial sweeteners, coloring, or preservatives are used
- the company values transparency regarding its ingredients
42 g
Weaknesses
120 g
- limited variety in flavors
- expensive
- does not offer an extensive range of vitamins and minerals
- contains coconut, which is an allergen for some individuals
8 g
This product from Optimum Nutrition is a high-protein, low-calorie formula that offers a balanced amount of carbs, vitamins, and minerals, facilitating post-workout recovery. The company suggests consumers can also consume it as a protein-rich snack between meals. The offer comes in two flavors: Double Chocolate and Vanilla Custard, both available in 5-lb tubs and 10-lb bags.
Nutritional Profile
| Total calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat || --- | --- | --- | --- || 650 | 60 g | 82 g | 9 g |
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Pros
- Delivers 60g of protein per serving
- Includes 29 vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and zinc to strengthen the immune system
- Although pricey, the cost per serving is relatively reasonable compared to other brands
320
Cons
50 g
- Contains 8g of sugar
- Reviews note that the product does not blend well and forms clumps
- Some customers report experiencing sugar spikes followed by crashes
- Not suitable for individuals with gluten intolerances
- Contains whey protein, making it unsuitable for those with lactose allergies or sensitivities or vegans
18 g
Best for plant-based ingredients: Iron Vegan Athlete’s Gainer
5 g
- Price: approx. $59
- Protein source: non-GMO fermented peas and organic brown rice
- Carb source: organic spirulina, quinoa, spinach, kale, millet, and sea vegetables
- Sugar source: organic stevia leaf extract
- Calories per serving: 720
The manufacturer characterizes this vegan supplement as functional food-based fuel. It offers 42g of protein from plant-based ingredients and 12g of fiber, while containing just 1g of sugar.
The product is comprised of whole grains, organic greens, sprouted grains and seeds, and sea vegetables. The 8g of fat it contains originates from organic coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, and flaxseed oil.
It is another lower-calorie option and has been tested for banned substances.
It is available in chocolate and vanilla flavors.
Naked Nutrition Naked Mass
Pros
1,250
- Vegan
- Offers a diverse range of natural, organic ingredients
- Low sugar content
- Lower calorie option
50 g
Cons
around $70
- Limited flavor variety
- Contains allergens such as coconut and sunflower
- High sodium content
Best for oxidative stress prevention: Muscle Milk Pro Series Protein Supplement
Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass
- Price: approx. $64
- Price per serving: around $2 per serving
- Protein source: milk protein isolate, calcium caseinate, whey protein concentrate
- Carb source: maltodextrin
- Sugar source: sucralose
- Calories per serving: 320
1,260
This Muscle Milk offering includes lactoferrin, which may aid in preventing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. It also provides a high protein level and is low in calories.
50 g
This product also contains 60% of the daily value of calcium, 40% of the daily value of magnesium, and 20 vitamins and minerals. The company claims that this blend of slow-releasing and fast-releasing proteins elevates amino acid levels, promoting muscle growth and muscle mass maintenance.
around $80
This product is available in three flavors: Intense Vanilla, Knockout Chocolate, and Slammin’ Strawberry.
Pros
Naked Nutrition Vegan
- Contains lactoferrin to help combat oxidative stress in the body
- Offers a substantial amount of magnesium and calcium
- Customers praise the product as easily mixable with various hot or cold beverages
- Many customers appreciate the product's pleasant taste
- Gluten-free
1,230
Cons
50 g
- The low-carb and low-calorie content may not facilitate mass gains at the same rate as other products
- Some customers find the strawberry flavor synthetic
- Others report that the product becomes overly foamy when mixed with milk
- Contains whey protein, rendering it unsuitable for vegans
around $70
Comparing the top mass builders
The following table provides a summary of the mass gainers highlighted in this article.
BSN True-Mass
| Calories | Protein | Price || --- | --- | --- || Naked Nutrition Naked Mass | 1,250 | 50 g | around $70 || Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass | 1,260 | 50 g | around $80 || Naked Nutrition Vegan | 1,230 | 50 g | around $70 || BSN True-Mass | 1,220 | 50 g | around $80 || Dymatize | 1,280 | 52 g | around $45 || Transparent Labs | 790 | 53 g | $79.99 || Optimum Nutrition GS Pro | 650 | 82 g | around $116 || Iron Vegan | 720 | 120 g | around $59 || Muscle Milk | 320 | 18 g | around $64 |
1,220
Methodology for Choosing
50 g
Medical News Today’s methodology
around $80
Healthline chooses supplements based on the following criteria:
- Composition: Healthline picks supplements that have safe and premium-quality ingredients that are clearly labeled. These ingredients must also be free from pesticides, heavy metals, and mold.
- Dose: Healthline selects supplements that clearly state the supplement dose.
- Serving size: Healthline opts for supplements where manufacturers recommend a safe dosage.
- Lab testing: Healthline prefers supplements that have undergone third-party testing for contaminants by an ISO 17025-compliant laboratory.
- Transparency: Healthline prefers companies that demonstrate transparency and share a product’s certificate of analysis (COA) after receiving its third-party lab results.
Dymatize
What are mass gainers?
1,280
When it comes to intense physical training, consuming more food for additional nutrients can be necessary. A supplement with extra protein and carbs is a handy method to get more calories into your diet.
52 g
People often take mass gainers in the form of a shake-style drink. These supplements have varying macronutrient amounts, and sometimes contain additional ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, and creatine.
around $45
People can opt for products with fewer calories to build lean muscle instead of gaining weight.
This article examines supplements for muscle mass growth and their nutritional contents.
Transparent Labs
Side effects
790
People with an intolerance to certain foods may experience digestive discomfort from mass gainers. It is recommended that first-time users start with a small dose and gradually increase it.
53 g
People who take mass gainer supplements without regularly working out may gain fat instead of muscle. Therefore, some people may benefit more from increasing the amount of lean protein in their diet.
$79.99
Building muscle
Incorporating that muscle group during exercise is the primary way to build and strengthen muscles. By working that muscle group, the muscle fibers break down and repair, strengthening over time.
Optimum Nutrition GS Pro
A study of 30 different training exercises suggests that 3–6 sets with up to 12 repetitions at a moderate intensity, with subsequent intensity increases, can maximize overall muscle growth.
650
Diet also plays a role in muscle building. People should aim for a nutritious, balanced diet while exercising to increase muscle mass.
82 g
Research suggests that additional protein may help build muscle. Consuming around 1.6 g of protein per kg of body weight after resistance exercise, in combination with daily consumption of around 1.6 g of protein per kg of body weight, may help increase muscle mass.
around $116
Exercising and mass gainers
Mass-gaining products typically contain calories, protein, and carbs that may help restore and build muscle during exercise. Researchers have found that mass gainers and exercise can help improve muscle strength and size.
Iron Vegan
A study examined participants who combined resistance training with whey protein isolate. The results show that protein supplementation with training resulted in larger muscles, although it did not affect actual strength compared to participants who did not consume the protein.
720
Frequently asked questions about mass gainers
120 g
Below are answers to common questions about mass gainer supplements.
around $59
Yes, people can naturally build muscle mass.
Exercise, such as resistance training, can help build muscle mass in combination with a nutritious, balanced diet.
Muscle Milk
Mass gainers can contain high amounts of sugar and carbs. These products may not be suitable for people with diabetes or insulin resistance.
320
Anyone with health conditions who may experience worsening symptoms with additional sugar in their diet should consult a healthcare professional before buying supplements.
18 g
Although there is a link between taking in amino acids and building muscle, scientific research has not yet determined the most effective proportions of amino acids and nutrients.
around $64
Combined with consistent resistance exercise training, mass gainers can be effective, although more research is needed.
There is no clear data to establish the type of protein, blend of amino acids, and other nutrients that would make the most effective supplement. Individual characteristics, including a person's baseline fitness, exercise type, and desired results, would also affect supplement selection.
Research indicates that a person taking a mass gainer while pursuing a sustained resistance exercise training program can see benefits in muscle strength and size, although more research is needed.
Summary
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate mass gainer products, so it can be challenging to determine whether a product contains what is listed on its label.
However, people who require extra protein and calories to build muscle during intense training may find mass gainers helpful. A person may choose a product based on its ingredients, taste, and value for money.
Once a person settles on a supplement, they can customize their shake's taste, texture, and nutritional content by adding ingredients such as nut butter, fruit, or oatmeal.
- Raw Rev Gain, a champion in natural ingredients, contains 1,250 calories and includes calcium and BCAAs, making it easy to integrate into beverages.
- Optimum Nutrition Platinum Mass Gainer, the best for additional vitamins and minerals, has 1,260 calories and offers a variety of vitamins and minerals, but may not be suitable for those preferring a higher protein content.
- Naked Nutrition Vegan Mass, the best option for vegetarians, contains 1,230 calories, is free of major allergens, and offers a complete amino acid profile.
- MuscleTech Mass Tech, which superiorly stands out in MCTs and BCAAs, provides 1,250 calories and is a good choice for individuals seeking a balance between fast and slow-digesting proteins.
- Universal Nutrition Real Gains, identified as a high protein powerhouse, provides 1,250 calories, is naturally sweetened, and is a versatile option suitable for beverages or mixing with fruit.
- Transparent Labs Mass Gainer, with natural complex carbohydrates, contains 790 calories, uses organic tapioca maltodextrin, and is free of artificial substances.
- Optimum Nutrition GS Pro Gainer, focusing on high protein content, has 650 calories, provides 60 grams of protein, and includes 29 vitamins and minerals to support post-workout recovery.
- Iron Vegan Athlete’s Gainer, ideal for plant-based ingredients, contains 720 calories, offers a diverse range of natural, organic ingredients, and delivers 42 grams of protein from plant-based sources.
- Muscle Milk Pro Series Protein Supplement, which excels in oxidative stress prevention, has 320 calories, includes lactoferrin for oxidative stress prevention, and offers a substantial amount of magnesium and calcium.