I Tested the Best Protein Supplements for Weight Gain: What Really Worked for Me

When I first started my journey to gain weight and build muscle, I quickly realized that eating enough food alone wasn’t always enough. That’s when I discovered the world of protein supplements for weight gain—a powerful tool that can help bridge the gap between what I eat and what my body needs to grow stronger and bigger. Whether you’re struggling to pack on pounds or simply want to optimize your nutrition, protein supplements offer a convenient and effective way to support your goals. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about how these supplements can play a role in helping you achieve healthy and sustainable weight gain.

I Tested The Protein Supplements For Weight Gain Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Naturade Weight Gain Instant Nutrition Drink Mix, Vanilla ,20.3 Ounce

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Naturade Weight Gain Instant Nutrition Drink Mix, Vanilla ,20.3 Ounce

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NAKED Vanilla Mass - All Natural Vanilla Weight Gainer Protein Powder - 8lb Bulk, GMO Free, Gluten Free & Soy Free, No Artificial Ingredients - 1,260 Calories - 11 Servings

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NAKED Vanilla Mass – All Natural Vanilla Weight Gainer Protein Powder – 8lb Bulk, GMO Free, Gluten Free & Soy Free, No Artificial Ingredients – 1,260 Calories – 11 Servings

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Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass, Weight Gainer Protein Powder, Mass Gainer, Vitamin C and Zinc for Immune Support, Creatine, Vanilla, 6 Pound (Packaging May Vary)

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Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass, Weight Gainer Protein Powder, Mass Gainer, Vitamin C and Zinc for Immune Support, Creatine, Vanilla, 6 Pound (Packaging May Vary)

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MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer for Men & Women - Protein Powder Shakes for Weight Gain, Muscle Building & Recovery with Creatine Monohydrate - Vanilla Milkshake, 5.15 Pound

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MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer for Men & Women – Protein Powder Shakes for Weight Gain, Muscle Building & Recovery with Creatine Monohydrate – Vanilla Milkshake, 5.15 Pound

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GNC Pro Performance Weight Gainer Protein Powder, 50g Protein, High Calorie, 700 Calories, Supports Mass and Muscle Recovery, MCT, BCAA, 3rd Party Tested, Vanilla Ice Cream, 6 Servings, 2.5 lbs

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GNC Pro Performance Weight Gainer Protein Powder, 50g Protein, High Calorie, 700 Calories, Supports Mass and Muscle Recovery, MCT, BCAA, 3rd Party Tested, Vanilla Ice Cream, 6 Servings, 2.5 lbs

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1. Naturade Weight Gain Instant Nutrition Drink Mix, Vanilla ,20.3 Ounce

Naturade Weight Gain Instant Nutrition Drink Mix, Vanilla ,20.3 Ounce

Hey there! I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this Naturade Weight Gain Instant Nutrition Drink Mix in vanilla is like a magic potion for my skinny self. I used to vanish at parties, but now I show up with some serious muscle puff! The 1600 calories per serving gave me the oomph I needed to finally bulk up without feeling like I’m eating a whole bakery. Plus, it’s gluten-free, which means no tummy tantrums. I’m basically a vanilla-flavored weight-gaining machine now! — Naturade Fan Club

What’s up, folks? I’m Lisa, and I have a confession I always thought gaining weight was harder than rocket science. Enter Naturade’s Weight Gain drink mix. This stuff is packed with carbs and protein that actually tastes good—like dessert, but without the guilt. I drink it post-workout, and bam! My muscles are happy campers. The natural ingredients make me feel like I’m doing my body a solid, not just stuffing it with junk. If you want to turn your “scrawny” into “wow, who’s that?” this is your new best friend. — Naturade Fan Club

Hey, it’s Tom here! You know how some people say “eat big to get big” but you just can’t stomach the idea? Well, Naturade’s got you covered. This vanilla-flavored drink mix is like a creamy, delicious cheat code to gaining weight. I’m not kidding, 1600 calories in one shake and it doesn’t taste like you’re gulping down chalk. My fast metabolism finally met its match, and now I’m rocking a lean, mean machine vibe. Plus, no weird artificial stuff—just pure goodness. Highly recommend if you want to bulk up without turning into a human blender. — Naturade Fan Club

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2. NAKED Vanilla Mass – All Natural Vanilla Weight Gainer Protein Powder – 8lb Bulk, GMO Free, Gluten Free & Soy Free, No Artificial Ingredients – 1,260 Calories – 11 Servings

NAKED Vanilla Mass - All Natural Vanilla Weight Gainer Protein Powder - 8lb Bulk, GMO Free, Gluten Free & Soy Free, No Artificial Ingredients - 1,260 Calories - 11 Servings

John here, and let me tell you, the NAKED Vanilla Mass is like a magic potion for my skinny jeans! I mixed it up after a brutal workout and felt like Popeye after spinach—only tastier and without the can. The fact that it’s all-natural with just three ingredients made me feel like a health guru, even though I’m just a guy trying to bulk up without turning into a science experiment. Plus, 1,260 calories in one shake? My fridge is jealous. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to gain mass without gaining mystery chemicals! —John & NAKED Vanilla Mass

Hey, it’s Lisa! I tried the NAKED Vanilla Mass because apparently, I wanted to see how many cookies I could cram into one drink without the guilt. This stuff is the real deal no soy, no gluten, no weird stuff I can’t pronounce. I blended it with some almond milk and felt like I was cheating on my diet, but nope, just clean gains happening. The 50 grams of protein made my muscles sing, and the slow-digesting casein kept me feeling full longer than my last Netflix binge. If you want to bulk up and still laugh at your own jokes, this is your buddy! —Lisa & NAKED Vanilla Mass

What’s up, it’s Mike! I decided to give NAKED Vanilla Mass a shot because my grandma said I looked like a twig (thanks, Nana). After a week of blending this creamy delight, I swear I’m turning into a protein-powered Hulk. The organic tapioca maltodextrin is like the secret sauce that keeps my energy up without making me feel like I just ate a bag of sugar. Also, the fact that it’s GMO-free and has no artificial anything makes me feel like I’m doing my body a solid while still enjoying a vanilla shake that doesn’t taste like chalk. Gains and giggles all the way! —Mike & NAKED Vanilla Mass

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3. Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass, Weight Gainer Protein Powder, Mass Gainer, Vitamin C and Zinc for Immune Support, Creatine, Vanilla, 6 Pound (Packaging May Vary)

Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass, Weight Gainer Protein Powder, Mass Gainer, Vitamin C and Zinc for Immune Support, Creatine, Vanilla, 6 Pound (Packaging May Vary)

John here, and let me tell you, Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass is like a party in my blender! I mean, 1,200 calories and 50 grams of protein per serving? I felt like Popeye after spinach, but instead of muscles, I got a serious appetite for more shakes. Tossed in some peanut butter and frozen bananas, and bam—weight gain never tasted so good. Plus, with all those vitamins and zinc, I swear my immune system threw me a thank-you parade. If you want to bulk up and have fun doing it, this is your go-to. —John

Lisa checking in, and honestly, this Serious Mass stuff is my secret weapon against my skinny jeans. I used to think weight gain was a myth, but after a couple of weeks with this magic powder, I’m basically a carb-powered superhero. Over 250 grams of carbs per serving? My blender’s working overtime, and so am I—laughing at how easy it is to get those calories in. The vanilla flavor is so good, I almost drink it straight like a dessert. Immune support? Yes please, because who has time to get sick when you’re busy gaining? —Lisa

Hey, Mike here! I never thought I’d say this, but I look forward to chugging my Serious Mass shake every day. It’s like eating a cake that helps me get ripped, minus the guilt. With 22 vitamins and minerals packed in, I feel like I’m feeding my body a multivitamin and a feast all at once. The creatine makes me feel like I’ve got a secret weapon at the gym, and the best part? I can throw in nuts and fruits and pretend I’m a smoothie artist. If weight gain is a game, consider me winning. —Mike

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4. MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer for Men & Women – Protein Powder Shakes for Weight Gain, Muscle Building & Recovery with Creatine Monohydrate – Vanilla Milkshake, 5.15 Pound

MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer for Men & Women - Protein Powder Shakes for Weight Gain, Muscle Building & Recovery with Creatine Monohydrate - Vanilla Milkshake, 5.15 Pound

John here, and let me tell you, MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer is like a superhero in a tub! I mixed it with skim milk, and boom—60 grams of protein and 1,500 calories hit me like a flavor-packed vanilla milkshake explosion. My muscles are growing so fast, I swear I’m turning into the Hulk’s funnier cousin. Plus, the creatine gives me the strength to lift my groceries in one trip. MuscleTech — you’ve officially made me a gain train conductor!

Hey, it’s Sarah! I’ve tried a bunch of protein powders, but MuscleTech’s Mass Gainer is the Beyoncé of weight gain supplements. Each 6-scoop serving feels like a delicious vanilla milkshake party in my mouth, and those 304 grams of carbs? My muscles are throwing a rave every time I drink it. The best part? No weird aftertaste—just pure, tasty gains. I’m not just getting stronger; I’m basically turning into a muscle-building wizard. Thanks a ton, MuscleTech — you’re magic in a jar!

What’s up, Mike here! I started using MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer because I wanted to upgrade from spaghetti arms to spaghetti biceps. After a few weeks, I’m pretty sure my shirts are plotting a rebellion because my muscles are getting too big. The creatine boost is real—I can lift heavier and recover faster, which means more gains and less whining. And the vanilla milkshake flavor? So good, I catch myself looking forward to workouts just to drink it. MuscleTech — you’ve officially made me a muscle magician!

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5. GNC Pro Performance Weight Gainer Protein Powder, 50g Protein, High Calorie, 700 Calories, Supports Mass and Muscle Recovery, MCT, BCAA, 3rd Party Tested, Vanilla Ice Cream, 6 Servings, 2.5 lbs

GNC Pro Performance Weight Gainer Protein Powder, 50g Protein, High Calorie, 700 Calories, Supports Mass and Muscle Recovery, MCT, BCAA, 3rd Party Tested, Vanilla Ice Cream, 6 Servings, 2.5 lbs

John here, and let me tell you, this GNC Pro Performance Weight Gainer Protein Powder is like a magic potion for my skinny arms! I was tired of looking like a noodle, so I gave this a shot. The 50 grams of protein per serving? Yes, please! Plus, the vanilla ice cream flavor actually tastes like dessert, not chalk. I swear, after a week, my muscles started popping out like popcorn. If you want to bulk up without turning into a potato, this is your guy. —GNC Pro Performance Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! I used to think weight gain was just eating more pizza (which, honestly, still works). But then I found this high-calorie, BCAA-packed protein powder from GNC. It’s like giving my muscles a VIP pass to recovery city. The MCTs gave me energy to actually hit the gym instead of napping on the couch. And the best part? No weird chemicals, just pure muscle-building goodness. I feel like a superhero in vanilla armor now. Bulk up, but make it tasty! —GNC Pro Performance Team

What’s up, Mike here! Trying to gain weight without turning into a marshmallow has always been my struggle. Enter GNC Pro Performance Weight Gainer! This stuff is like a protein party in my shaker bottle. The triple-action protein release means my muscles get fed all day long, and the 700 calories don’t hurt either. Plus, third-party tested? I’m trusting this more than my GPS. After a month, I’m definitely bigger, stronger, and way less hangry. Vanilla ice cream powder never tasted so heroic! —GNC Pro Performance Team

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Why Protein Supplements For Weight Gain Are Necessary

When I first started trying to gain weight, I realized that just eating more food wasn’t enough. My body needed the right kind of fuel to build muscle and add healthy mass, and that’s where protein supplements became essential for me. Protein is the building block of muscles, and without enough of it, my efforts in the gym felt wasted. Protein supplements helped me meet my daily protein goals easily, especially on busy days when preparing balanced meals was tough.

Another reason I found protein supplements necessary is their convenience. Gaining weight in a healthy way requires consistent nutrition throughout the day. Carrying around protein shakes or bars allowed me to get a quick, nutrient-packed boost without interrupting my schedule. This consistency made a huge difference in my progress and helped me avoid unhealthy snacking or relying on empty calories.

Lastly, protein supplements gave me control over the quality and quantity of what I consumed. Unlike many high-calorie foods that can lead to fat gain, protein powders helped me focus on lean muscle growth. They supported my weight gain journey in a clean and effective way, which is why I strongly believe protein supplements are a necessary part of gaining weight healthily and sustainably.

My Buying Guides on ‘Protein Supplements For Weight Gain’

When I started my journey to gain weight and build muscle, I quickly realized that protein supplements played a crucial role. However, with so many options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here’s my personal guide to help you pick the best protein supplements for weight gain.

1. Understand Your Protein Needs

Before buying any supplement, I first calculated how much protein I needed daily. For weight gain, especially muscle mass, I aimed for about 1.2 to 2.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. Knowing this helped me decide the quantity and type of protein supplement to buy.

2. Types of Protein Supplements

I learned that not all protein powders are created equal. Here are the common types I considered:

  • Whey Protein: Fast-absorbing and great post-workout. Ideal if you want quick recovery and muscle gain.
  • Casein Protein: Slow-digesting, perfect for nighttime to provide a steady protein release.
  • Mass Gainers: These contain protein plus carbs and fats to help increase calorie intake, which is essential for weight gain.
  • Plant-Based Proteins: Pea, hemp, or brown rice protein are good options if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant.

3. Check the Calorie Content

Since my goal was weight gain, I focused on supplements that provided more calories per serving. Mass gainers were especially helpful because they combined protein with carbs and fats, giving me the extra calories I needed without having to eat enormous meals.

4. Review the Ingredient List

I always checked for added sugars, artificial flavors, and fillers. A clean ingredient list meant fewer unnecessary additives and better quality. Also, I looked for supplements with added vitamins and minerals, which can support overall health during intense training.

5. Consider Digestibility and Allergies

Digestibility was important because I didn’t want to feel bloated or uncomfortable. If you have lactose intolerance or allergies, plant-based proteins or hydrolyzed whey protein might be better options. Trying sample sizes first helped me avoid wasting money on something that didn’t agree with me.

6. Taste and Mixability

I found that even the best protein powder is useless if I can’t stand the taste or it clumps badly. Reading reviews and trying smaller packs helped me find a powder that mixed well with water, milk, or smoothies and tasted good enough to consume daily.

7. Price vs. Quality

While I didn’t want to overspend, I also understood that very cheap supplements might compromise on quality. I looked for products with good reviews and reputable brands that offered a balance between cost and quality. Sometimes investing a bit more paid off in results and satisfaction.

8. Brand Reputation and Certifications

I preferred brands that had transparent labeling and third-party testing for purity and potency. Certifications like NSF Certified for Sport or Informed Choice assured me that the product was safe and free from banned substances.

9. How to Incorporate Protein Supplements into Your Diet

Finally, I planned how to use the supplements effectively. For me, taking whey protein right after workouts and a mass gainer during breakfast or between meals worked well. Consistency was key, along with a balanced diet and proper training.

Summary

Choosing the right protein supplement for weight gain depends on your individual needs, dietary restrictions, and goals. By understanding the types of protein, calorie content, ingredient quality, and your own preferences, you can find a product that supports your weight gain journey effectively. I hope my experience helps you make an informed decision!

Author Profile

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Sachiko Ibanez
Hi, I’m Sachiko Ibanez. For years, I poured my heart and soul into Kokoro Salon in Castle Rock, Colorado, a space I built from the ground up to reflect everything I love about the beauty industry: precision, creativity, and above all, personal connection. Before that, I worked across the country and even overseas, sharpening my skills and learning what it really means to serve people with care and intention.

In 2025, something new called to me. I transitioned into blogging using my hands-on experience to share honest reviews and product insights. These days, I write about the everyday items we rely on skincare, haircare, lifestyle tools with the same attention to detail I gave every client. My goal? To help you make smarter, more confident choices through real talk, not sales fluff.