Mass gainers are supplements with a blend of carbs, protein, and fats, which are used to help you gain weight, especially if you are trying to bulk up.
Mass gainers may be a good source of extra calories and protein if you are trying to build muscle during periods of intense training. However, if you’re trying to gain only lean muscle mass, whey protein may be a better option for you.
Typically, the carbs to protein ratio in mass gainers is either 3:1 or 2:1. Some mass gainers contain micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, in varying amounts.
Are mass gainers safe for everyone?
Mass gainers are safe for most healthy people, but they come with potential side effects as well. The recommended daily allowance is 50-150 grams taken in the form of milkshakes or mixed in water.
Potential side effects of mass gainers include:
- Upset stomach: Mass gainers may cause digestive problems in people who have food intolerances. If you are trying a mass gainer for the first time, start with a smaller amount and increase the dose gradually. It is common to experience flatulence, bloating, and cramps during the first week.
- Allergies: If you are allergic to dairy or lactose intolerant, you should consult your physician or nutritionist starting mass gainers.
- Weight gain: Mass gainers may end up causing weight gain if you aren’t exercising regularly.
- Ambiguity about ingredients: The FDA does not regulate mass gainer products, so it is hard to determine whether a particular mass gainer contains the ingredients mentioned on the label.
What is the difference between mass gainer and whey protein?
Composition
Mass gainers typically contain more carbs and fats and less protein than whey protein powders. Carbohydrates content in mass gainers are typically 2-3 times greater than protein content. Whey protein mixes may have between 90%-95% of protein content with only a few carbs and fats.
While mass gainers contain all major macronutrients (protein, fats, and carbohydrates), whey protein powder is a protein-predominant source without the added carbs, fats, and calories.
Effect
- Bulk: Mass gainers increase body weight, whereas whey proteins increase only the muscle mass without giving a bulky effect.
- Fat storage: Mass gainers help increase insulin levels, thereby promoting fat storage in the body. Whey proteins improve lean muscle without increasing fat levels.
SLIDESHOW
Vitamin D Deficiency: How Much Vitamin D Is Enough? See SlideshowHealth Solutions From Our Sponsors
Top Is It Good to Take Mass Gainers Related Articles
Diet and Nutrition: Protein Sources That Aren’t Meat
Pack your pantry with these high-protein beans, seeds, nuts, and grains.
How Can I Build My Back Muscles at Home?
The spine supports our weight and posture. A healthy spine is essential for supporting our body weight. Poor lifestyle habits, such as faulty posture, constant sitting, bending over, being overweight, put stress on the back muscles. Hence, regular exercises and stretching are essential to maintain spine health.
Men's Muscle-Building
Want bulging biceps and a bigger chest? Our experts demonstrate the right moves to help men build bigger muscles with just two efficient workouts each week.
Protein Quiz
Protein is a staple in our diets, but what happens if we get too much? Take this quiz to find out the truth about protein and what's behind the high-protein diet craze!
Vitamins and Calcium Supplements
Vitamins are organic substances that are essential for the proper growth and functioning of the body. Calcium is a mineral essential for healthy bones and is also important for muscle contraction, heart action, and normal blood clotting. Check out the center below for more medical references on vitamins and calcium supplements, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related disease conditions, treatment and diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.
Vitamins Quiz
Take the Vitamins & Supplements Quiz to learn just how many essential vitamins your body needs to function!
What Happens When You Eat Too Much Protein?
Our body uses protein to build the muscles and organs, deliver oxygen to the cells, and keep the immune system working. Most people should get at least 10-15% of their daily calories from protein.
What Is the Best Vitamin Supplement to Take?
Dietary supplements are a general term that includes vitamins, minerals, botanicals, probiotics and other products to supplement the diet. The best vitamin supplement differs from person to person depending on their gender, age and any health conditions they have.