When to take it
After training or between meals; you can split one serving into two.
← All supplements
PerformanceModerate evidence
Mass gainer
Also known as: weight gainer, carb-protein shake
A mass gainer is a powdered blend of carbohydrates (mainly maltodextrin, sometimes oats or sugars) and protein, often with fats, creatine or vitamins. It helps raise energy intake when gaining weight is hard; ratios and quality depend on the label.
What it is used for
- increasing energy intake and body weight – moderate evidence (the effect comes from calories)
- glycogen replenishment after training – moderate evidence for carbohydrates
- muscle support with training – moderate evidence for protein
Forms and how they differ
high-carb (e.g. 3:1 to 4:1)
lots of calories, for very active people with fast metabolism
balanced (e.g. 1:1)
more protein, less sugar
with complex carbs
oats, maize, rice – slower sugar rise
with sweeteners and creatine
check you are not doubling creatine
Pairs well with
Milk, banana, peanut butter; regular meals.
Do not combine / separate
Not suitable when losing weight or with a sedentary lifestyle; do not add other sugary drinks.
Watch out for
With diabetes or prediabetes, kidney or liver disease, in pregnancy or when taking medicines, consult your doctor.
Safety
The main risk is excessive sugar and calorie intake; do not exceed the label dose.
Practical tip
A homemade shake of protein, oats, banana and nut butter often works better.
Products containing Mass gainer 1
Mass gainer carbohydrates + proteincarbohydrates + protein
How to read the evidence rating
Strong evidenceModerate evidenceWeak evidenceNo evidence
Strong = several good human studies or official recommendations; moderate = promising but smaller studies; weak = few studies or mixed results; no evidence = claims not confirmed.
Combination check
Select the supplements you take and, if relevant, your medicines. We show what interferes, what needs a time gap and what to watch out for.
Check Mass gainer with othersWhich supplements do you actually need?
Fénix Methode picks them from your blood results and schedules when to take what – no needless purchases.
From the same group
AmylopectinModerate evidenceBeta-alanineStrong evidenceBHB ketonesWeak evidenceCaffeineStrong evidenceCreatineStrong evidenceD-aspartic acidWeak evidence
Important notice
This information is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. We do not give medicine dosages. Supplements are no substitute for a varied diet; if pregnant, breastfeeding, ill or on medication, consult a doctor first.