6 Ways You Can Benefit From A Mass Gainer

What is the first thing that strikes your mind when you think of gym supplements? Protein shakes and other supplements aid in losing weight. Well, for some, it is not about losing weight.

Many people struggle with gaining weight. Therefore, this is where mass gainers come in. Mass gainers have been made to help those who are skinny.

Mass gainers are a perfect supplement for those who have constantly been underweight. These are generally recommended for those who have a strong metabolism.

Are you hitting the gym and trying to gain a few kilograms? Then Mass gainers could be a good supplement that you can consider buying.

Have no idea about what they are? Whether they are safe or not? No need to fret! In this article, we will be talking about mass gainers in detail.

We will be listing its benefits and offering you a good insight into what they are all about. So, let us start with the basics.

 

What Is A Mass Gainer?

A mass gainer is a dietary supplement that contains protein, carbs, and perhaps fat to assist in the growth and development of muscle mass.

In simple words, it is a protein powder that will help you meet your calorie intake. Hence, it will nourish you with essential dietary fibres and nutrients. As an outcome, healthy weight gain is promoted.

Mass gainers can also be consumed by those who suffer from protein or other nutrient deficiencies. But, it is imperative to take the advice of your dietician or gym instructor.

A mass gainer qualifies to be a meal as it provides all the necessary nutrients. Its primary has the following composition –

• CARBOHYDRATES – 70 PERCENT
• PROTEINS-20-30 PERCENT
• FATS – 10 PERCENT OR LESS THAN THAT

A mass gainer helps you achieve your daily calorie and macronutrient consumption goals. So, you do not have to eat more than you are used to eating.

 

The Need For Mass Gainers

Now that you know what a mass gainer is, a relevant question arises. Why does one need a mass gainer? Well, as stated before, it is for those who want to increase their weight.

Here, I have curated a list of people who might require mass gainers. Check it out!

People With Fast Metabolism

Metabolism pertains to the chemical reactions that occur in your body. These chemical reactions lead to the assimilation and absorption of nutrients.

If someone has a fast metabolism, then they tend to burn calories at a quicker rate. So, even if they eat enough, they remain lean or skinny. If someone has a faster metabolism, then a mass gainer could be a good choice for them.

 

Athletes

It can be a good choice for athletes and other sportspeople. Mass gainers assist in muscle gain. It is so because they furnish you with a good dose of protein.

Therefore, all this stimulates the growth and repair of body tissues.

 

Bodybuilders/weight Lifters  

Bodybuilders and weightlifters must consume a high number of calories. Mass gainers help them to consume those extra calories.

 

Hard Gainers

A hard gainer is also recommended for consuming mass gainers. A hard gainer is someone who is involved in bodybuilding and serious weight training. But, I still struggle to gain muscles.

If you are someone who has a hard time getting those six-pack abs or biceps despite working out regularly, then you should consider mass gainers.

 

Weak Appetite 

A person who suffers from a weak appetite or loss of appetite finds it hard to eat meals. If you are someone who fails to eat balanced meals, then mass gainers are a good choice.

So, if you come in one of the above-stated categories, then mass gainers can be a great choice of supplement for you. Why do I say so? Read further to find out the benefits of mass gainers.

 

Benefits Of Mass Gainers

Provides Fibres

If you are trying to build muscles, then your body requires a good amount of fibre. Fibre helps in the removal of toxins from the body.

The intake of fibre is also important for your digestive system. Consuming enough fibre promotes a healthy gut. Fibres also reduce bloating.

A recent study has also shown that increasing dietary intake of fibre can help to increase muscle mass.

 

Aids In Muscle Growth And Recovery

The most imperative function of a mass gainer is to enable the growth and development of muscles. Moreover, they also help in repairing tissues and muscles. It contains the right balance of all dietary supplements.

 

Rich In Carbohydrates

Mass gainers provide you with a good amount of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are considered to be the primary source of energy. The body breaks down these carbs into glucose, which gives you energy.

Carbohydrates are important for those who work out regularly. It is so because when you work out, a lot of energy is required. Therefore, mass gainers assist in providing that necessary energy.

 

Right Balance Of Minerals And Vitamins

Mass gainers are a great source of vitamins and minerals too. Vitamins and minerals are important for your body to stay healthy.

If not taken in the proper amount, it can lead to deficiency diseases. So, mass gainers enable you to get the right balance of minerals and vitamins too.

 

Keeps You Lean

No one wants to become fat while trying to increase their muscle mass. Mass gainers make sure that you consume only good fats. By providing you with good and essential fat, it ensures that you stay lean and gain lean muscles. 

 

Fulfills Your Calorific Requirements 

Mass gainers quite obviously help you to fulfil your everyday calorific requirements. So, if you suffer from a loss of appetite, then mass gainers could be a good option. They will provide you with all the necessary macro and micronutrients.

 

Probable Side Effects Of A Mass Gainer 

It is necessary to evaluate the side effects of mass gainers too. So, here are some side effects of mass gainers –

Excess Weight Gain

They can lead to excess and quick weight gain for some. If you do not work out regularly and consume mass gainers, it can lead to excessive weight gain.

 

Indigestion

There are chances that you suffer from indigestion or constipation. It can lead to gastric issues. So, make sure you take the prescribed amount.

 

Insomnia

The presence of creatine and caffeine can lead to insomnia. Creatine and caffeine help with stamina. Therefore, avoid taking mass gainers in the evening.

 

Cramping

 Some people have complained of cramping too.

 

Kidney Damage 

Even though creatine is an integral supplement for gaining mass, there are chances of it leading to kidney damage.

 

What to consider when buying a mass gainer?

Struggling to choose an ideal mass gainer? You are in luck, for we have enlisted what you should be looking for when buying a mass gainer –

PROTEIN –

 Buy a mass gainer that offers 40-50grams of protein per serving. If you are lactose intolerant, check what type of protein is present. A mass gainer with soy protein is not a great choice.

 

CARBOHYDRATES –

 Do not go for mass gainers that contain cheap carbohydrates. These will only lead to health-related issues. Apart from this, check the ratio of carbohydrates to protein. 

Never buy a mass gainer that has dextrose. The best sources of carbohydrates are oats powder, quinoa powder, maltodextrin, etc.

There are a variety of mass gainers. Some have a ratio of 1:1 with protein, while others might have a ratio of 4:5. It can vary substantially from person to person. Therefore, choose wisely.

 

FATS –

 When buying mass gainers, make sure there are little to no saturated fats. The good fats include flaxseed oil, borage oil, coconut oil powder, etc.

 

CREATINE – 

Creatine monohydrate is another essential ingredient present in mass gainers. Your mass gainer should have 3-5g of creatine per serving.

Creatine is necessary because it stimulates lean mass and provides strength. Therefore, make sure your mass gainer has this compound.

 

SWEETENER –

Make sure that the mass gainer you purchase does not have any artificial sweetener present. A good mass gainer will always have natural sources of sugar.

 

How long should you take a mass gainer?

The decision lies with you or your gym instructor. Once you start noticing muscle gains and have achieved your ideal goal, it is time to stop using it.

It is necessary to evaluate the side effects of mass gainers too. So, here are some side effects of mass gainers –

EXCESS WEIGHT GAIN –

 They can lead to excess and quick weight gain for some. If you do not work out regularly and consume mass gainers, it can lead to excessive weight gain.

 

INDIGESTION – 

There are chances that you suffer from indigestion or constipation. It can lead to gastric issues. So, make sure you take the prescribed amount.

 

INSOMNIA –

The presence of creatine and caffeine can lead to insomnia. Creatine and caffeine help with stamina. Therefore, avoid taking mass gainers in the evening.

 

CRAMPING – 

Some people have complained of cramping too.

 

KIDNEY DAMAGE –

Even though creatine is an integral supplement for gaining mass, there are chances of it leading to kidney damage.

 

How are mass gainers different from protein powder?

A protein powder is a commonly used supplement among gym-goers. Mass gainers and protein powders are often confused as the same thing. However, this is a wrong notion.

Protein powder is generally suitable for those who work out regularly. These are for those who might have never had a problem with gaining weight.

The main constituent of a protein powder is protein. It has around 80 % – 90 % of the protein in it. On the other hand, the chief supplement in a mass gainer is Carbohydrates. 

Therefore, before purchasing, make sure what you need. It is better to take the advice of your gym instructor or dietician.

 

CONCLUSION

A prevalent misconception among most buyers is that just taking this supplement is going to help you gain mass. However, this is untrue.

A lot of work goes into it. It is essential to work out every day and do proper strength and weight training. If you’re taking a mass gainer, make sure you go to the gym or you’ll gain undesired fat.

Some mass gainers should be used right before or after a workout. Others are intended to be consumed as meal replacements or supplements. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a professional before consuming it.

I hope through this article, you were able to understand what a mass gainer is all about. Have you ever used one? If yes, let me know about your personal experience.

If you are planning to buy one for the first time, keep in mind the points mentioned above. I am sure these pointers will ensure you buy the right mass gainer.