Are you someone who has been struggling to put on weight and build muscle despite a consistent workout routine and a healthy diet? If so, you might have considered using weight gain supplements to help you achieve your fitness goals.
However, with so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs. In particular, the terms “mass gainer” and “weight gainer” are often used interchangeably, causing confusion among buyers.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between mass gainers and weight gainers to help you make an informed decision.
We’ll examine the ingredients, nutrient profiles, and intended uses of these supplements to give you a comprehensive understanding of what each product can offer.
Whether you’re a hard gainer looking to bulk up or an athlete seeking to supplement your training, this post will provide you with the information you need to select the best weight gain supplement for your body and fitness goals.
So, let’s dive in!
Weight Gainers and their role
Maintaining muscle health and enhancing exercise recovery is crucial for optimal athletic performance.
In addition, building muscle mass, decreasing body fat, and improving strength is desirable for numerous sports. Among fitness enthusiasts, Gainers are a favoured supplement for muscle development.
The nutritional needs of an individual are determined by various factors such as age, height, gender, and the level of physical activity they engage in.
Also, the body type is a crucial factor that determines the caloric requirements of an individual. The body type is generally classified into three types based on body composition: ectomorph, mesomorph, and endomorph.
Individuals with a mesomorphic body type have a well-developed muscular build. They can quickly gain or lose mass, whereas those with an endomorphic body type have a naturally slow metabolism, making it easy for them to gain fat but difficult to lose it.
Gainers are particularly advantageous for individuals with ectomorphic body types, commonly called hard gainers, due to their speedy metabolism. Such people find it difficult to gain weight and develop muscle mass.
Gainers can be classified into two categories – mass gainers and weight gainers.
Each type has different benefits and nutritional compositions and is effective for distinct body types. Despite their similar appearance, they have a significant difference.
What Are Mass Gainers?
A mass gainer protein supplement contains calories, proteins, carbs, and fats. It also provides dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals and is typically used to gain muscle mass. Usually, mass gainers contain carbs and protein in the ratio of 3:1 and 2:1.
They combine high-quality protein sources with complex carbs for muscle building and workout recovery.
What Are Weight Gainers?
Weight gainers are a popular option for individuals who want to gain weight by consuming a high amount of calories. These shakes contain a significant amount of carbohydrates and proteins, which promote the growth of both muscle and fat.
Typically, weight gainers have a higher calorie content per serving compared to mass gainers, ranging between 700 to 1300 kcal per serving.
Difference between Mass Gainer & Weight Gainer
| PARAMETER | MASS GAINER | WEIGHT GAINER |
| Purpose | To gain muscle mass. | To gain weight. |
| Suitable for | Prospective body- builders, gym-goers. | Hard-gainers. |
| Protein Quantity | High in protein to support lean muscle mass gain. | Protein is present in fewer amounts as compared to carbs. |
| Dietary Fiber | Good source of dietary fiber andsupport better digestion of nutrients. | Contain less or no dietary fiber as compared to mass gainers. |
| Calories | The calorie content is less as compared to a weight gainer. | Very high in calories usually between 700-1300 kcal per serve. |
| Exercise Recommendation | Heavy workout is crucial to build lean mass and minimize fat accumulation. | Light exercise is advisable as they are suitable for hard gainers. |
While mass gainers and weight gainers may seem similar at first glance, the two have some key differences. Here are some of the main differences:
1. Calorie Content
The calorie content is one of the most significant differences between mass and weight gainers. Mass gainers are typically lower in calories than weight gainers, as they are designed to be consumed between meals to supplement the diet.
Weight gainers, on the other hand, are designed to be consumed in place of a meal and are, therefore, much higher in calories.
2. Carbohydrate Content
Another key difference between mass gainers and weight gainers is the carbohydrate content. Mass gainers often contain more complex carbohydrates, such as oat flour, than weight gainers.
This is because complex carbohydrates provide a sustained release of energy, which can help to fuel workouts and promote muscle growth.
Weight gainers, on the other hand, often contain a higher percentage of simple carbohydrates, such as dextrose, which provide a quick source of energy.
3. Protein Content
Both mass gainers and weight gainers contain protein, but the type and amount of protein can vary. Mass gainers often contain a blend of proteins, such as whey protein, casein protein, and soy protein, while weight gainers typically contain a higher percentage of whey protein.
Also, mass gainers tend to contain more protein per serving than weight gainers, as they are designed to be consumed between meals to supplement the diet.
4. Timing of Consumption
Mass gainers are typically consumed between meals to supplement the diet, while weight gainers are designed to be consumed in place of a meal.
Mass gainers can be consumed at any time, while weight gainers are typically used as a meal replacement for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Top Weight Gainers available in the market
Let us review some of India’s best-selling mass gainers and weight gainers.
- Nutrabay Gold Mega Mass Gainer
- Labrada Mass Gainer
- ON Serious Mass Gainer
- Dymatize Super Mass Gainer
- GNC Weight Gainer
- MuscleBlaze Mass Gainer XXL
1. Nutrabay Gold Mega Mass Gainer
This is the best mass gainer protein designed for bodybuilders and athletes in India who want to build lean muscle mass. It contains a protein blend of whey and casein that provides 40 grams of protein per serving.
The ratio of carbohydrates to proteins is 3:1, and the healthy Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) fats offer quick-burning fuel, making it an ideal supplement for achieving weight goals and strengthening muscles.
- Nutrition per serve (182 g)
- Calories: 711 kcal
- Carbs: 123 g
- Proteins: 40 g
- Fats: 6.2 g
2. Labrada Mass Gainer
This mass gainer is particularly advantageous for individuals looking to boost their muscle mass.
Its high-calorie content contains 1 g of creatine monohydrate and 500 mg of L-glutamine amino acid, which can aid in developing lean muscle, enhancing strength, and improving recovery.
- Nutrition per serve (333 g)
- Calories: 1244 kcal
- Carbs: 250 g
- Proteins: 52 g
- Fats: 4 g
3. ON Serious Mass Gainer
The Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass High Protein Weight Gain powder, is a top-notch formula.
It is formulated with a balanced ratio of macronutrients and is enriched with 1 g of creatine monohydrate, vitamins, and minerals.
This product features a blend of three superior protein sources, including whey, casein, and egg white. And, it is certified by NSF International as Certified for Sport and carries the Informed-Choice seal, ensuring its quality and safety.
- Nutrition per serve (334 g)
- Calories: 1243 kcal
- Carbs: 254 g
- Proteins: 50 g
- Fats: 3 g
4. Dymatize Super Mass Gainer
The Dymatize Super Mass Gainer has a strong scientific foundation and is specifically designed to provide your body with the necessary energy for intense workout sessions.
Its superior blend of nutrients is free of added sugars, and including creatine promotes healthy and faster results in body weight.
- Nutrition per serve (336 g)
- Calories: 1280 kcal
- Carbs: 242 g
- Proteins: 52 g
- Fats: 10 g
5. GNC Weight Gainer
If you’re looking to gain weight, this weight gainer for skinny guys is the ideal choice. Each serving contains over 700 calories, making it an excellent supplement for healthy weight gain. And, it includes a blend of digestive enzymes that support the breakdown and absorption of proteins and carbohydrates, further enhancing its effectiveness.
- Nutrition per serve (485 g)
- Calories: 1860 kcal
- Carbs: 405 g
- Proteins: 50 g
- Fats: 4.5 g
6. MuscleBlaze Mass Gainer XXL
This muscle gainer is an excellent choice for enhancing muscle size, strength, and glycogen levels.
It derives protein from high-quality whey and casein and its carbs from simple and complex sources, providing sustained energy levels throughout the day.
The product is enriched with essential vitamins, minerals, and a digestive enzyme blend to ensure optimal nutrient absorption.
- Nutrition per serve (75 g)
- Calories: 283 kcal
- Carbs: 15.75 g
- Proteins: 52.5 g
- Fats: 1.5 g
The Major Benefits of Intaking Weight Gainers
Weight gainers are specifically designed to help individuals gain weight and muscle mass, and there are several benefits associated with their use. Here are some of the key benefits of weight gainers:
1. Increased calorie intake
Weight gainers are an excellent source of additional calories. They contain a high amount of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, which are essential macronutrients for weight gain. 1
2. Enhanced muscle growth
Weight gainers contain a significant amount of protein, which is crucial for muscle growth. A higher protein intake is necessary to build muscle mass and strength. 2
3. Faster recovery
Weight gainers contain amino acids essential for repairing and rebuilding muscles after a workout. This leads to faster recovery and reduced muscle soreness. 1
4. Convenient and easy to consume
Weight gainers are easy to consume and are available in different flavors. They can be mixed with water or milk and consumed as a shake or smoothie, making them a convenient option for people with busy schedules. 3
5. Improved nutrient absorption
Weight gainers often contain digestive enzymes, which aid in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients, leading to improved nutrient absorption and utilization. 4
6. Boosted energy levels
Weight gainers contain carbohydrates, an excellent energy source. Consuming weight gainers before a workout can boost energy, leading to improved performance during exercise. 5
7. May help prevent muscle breakdown
Weight gainers contain branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) essential for preventing muscle breakdown. Consuming weight gainers can help ensure the body has an adequate supply of BCAAs, which can help protect muscle mass during periods of intense exercise or calorie restriction. 6
Which One is Right for You?
Deciding whether to use a mass gainer or weight gainer can depend on a number of factors, including your fitness goals, dietary needs, and personal preferences. Here are some key things to consider when choosing between the two:
1. Fitness Goals
If your primary goal is building muscle mass, a mass gainer may be more appropriate. Mass gainers are designed to provide additional calories and nutrients that can help support muscle growth and recovery.
On the other hand, if your goal is simply to gain weight, a weight gainer may be a better choice.
2. Dietary Needs
Another essential factor to consider is your dietary needs. If you struggle to consume enough calories and nutrients through your regular diet, a mass gainer may be an excellent supplement to help fill the gaps.
However, if you already consume a high-calorie diet, a weight gainer may not be necessary and could lead to excessive weight gain.
3. Personal Preferences
Also, personal preferences can also play a role in choosing between mass and weight gainers. If you prefer to eat whole foods and are only looking for a supplement to add to your diet occasionally, a mass gainer may be a better choice.
However, if you prefer the convenience of a meal replacement shake and want something easy to consume on the go, a weight gainer may be more appropriate.
Wrapping Up
Mass and weight gainers can be helpful supplements for those seeking to gain weight and build muscle mass. However, it’s essential to understand the differences between the two and choose the one that best fits your needs and goals.
Remember always to follow the instructions on the label and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
You can achieve your fitness goals and build your desired body with the right supplement and a consistent workout routine.
Is mass gainer same as weight gainer?
Mass gainers contain higher quantities of protein than weight gainers. It’s because the weight gainers are only used in refueling body’s carbohydrates storage for improved performance. Weight gainers contain more carbohydrates. Extra carbs help you gain weight.
What is the difference between mass gainer and lean mass gainer?
Mass gainers are supplements loaded with “calories” through carbohydrates and proteins with a limited amount of fats. That is why they help in gaining both fats as well as muscles. Leans gainers too are as mass gainers, but they are lower on their carbohydrate content leading to lesser fat gain than mass gainers
What is better for weight gain protein or mass gainer?
Mass gainers are a great option for muscle building and gaining a lot of bulk. Whey protein is the better choice if you’re looking to build muscle without bulking up. Mass Gainers will lead to an insulin spike and potentially store a considerable amount of unwanted fat
Should I use mass gainer daily?
Summary. Mass gainer can be taken every day and should be if you’re a hard gainer that can’t get enough calories from whole foods. They can also be used as meal replacements each day if you live a busy lifestyle.
Should I use weight or mass?
Your mass is the same no matter where you go in the universe; your weight, on the other hand, changes from place to place. Mass is measured in kilograms; even though we usually talk about weight in kilograms, strictly speaking it should be measured in newtons, the units of force.
Who needs mass gainer?
A mass gainer is for those, who cannot eat enough calories, protein, carbs and fat to build adequate muscle. This is typically teenage males and guys in their early 20s. Mass gainers give you extra calories along with measured macros, such as proteins, carbs, high-quality fats in an easy to mix shake.
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