Ever look in the mirror and wish you had a little more muscle? Maybe you eat a lot but still find it hard to put on weight. You’re not alone! Many people want to gain weight, and healthy shakes can be a super helpful tool to get there.
But when you start looking for weight-gain shakes, it can feel like a jungle out there. So many brands, so many ingredients! How do you know which one will actually help you and not just fill you up with sugar? It’s confusing and can make you feel like you’re wasting your money or not reaching your goals.
This post is here to clear things up. We’ll break down what makes a good weight-gain shake and help you understand what to look for. By the end, you’ll feel much more confident about choosing the right shake to support your healthy weight gain journey.
Top Shakes To Gain Weight Recommendations
- Convenient Weight Gain Support: BOOST Very High Calorie Nutritional Drink provides a high calorie, high protein, nutrient-packed snack or mini meal, helping you to gain weight or maintain weight
- 530 Nutrient-Dense Calories: Each 8 fl oz of this nutritional drink provides 530 calories, with 22 g of high-quality protein to help maintain muscles
- 26 Vitamins & Minerals: This calorie-dense nutritional drink provides key nutrients for immune support, including vitamins C, zinc and iron, brain health, including vitamin B12 and niacin, and bone health, including calcium and vitamin
- Delicious Nutritional Drink: This great-tasting high nutritional drink makes it easy to get back to what you love; drink over ice if you prefer a less thick drink
- BOOST family of nutritional shakes: Whether you want extra protein, less sugars, more calories, fewer calories, or simply great nutrition for everyday living, there's a BOOST Nutritional Shake that fits your needs
- Convenient Weight Gain Support: BOOST Very High Calorie Nutritional Drink provides a high calorie, high protein, nutrient-packed snack or mini meal, helping you to gain weight or maintain weight
- 530 Nutrient-Dense Calories: Each 8 fl oz of this nutritional drink provides 530 calories, with 22 g of high-quality protein to help maintain muscles
- 26 Vitamins & Minerals: This calorie-dense nutritional drink provides key nutrients for immune support, including vitamins C, zinc and iron, brain health, including vitamin B12 and niacin, and bone health, including calcium and vitamin
- Delicious Nutritional Drink: This great-tasting high nutritional drink makes it easy to get back to what you love; drink over ice if you prefer a less thick drink
- BOOST family of nutritional shakes: Whether you want extra protein, less sugars, more calories, fewer calories, or simply great nutrition for everyday living, there's a BOOST Nutritional Shake that fits your needs
- Balanced Nutrition For Healthy Weight Support: A calorie-dense nutrition drink mix designed to help support healthy weight maintenance with a blend of carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals without extreme bulking formulas
- Supports Active, Demanding Lifestyles: Ideal for active routines, workouts, and busy schedules when meeting daily calorie needs through food alone can be challenging
- Gentle, Nourishing Support For Your Body: Thoughtfully designed for those experiencing appetite changes, fast metabolisms, or life-stage transitions where maintaining weight feels difficult without pressure or extremes
- Flexible, Everyday Use: Enjoy between meals, blended into smoothies, or as part of a daily nutrition routine that adapts to your lifestyle - at home or on the go
- Award-Recognized & Trusted Since 1926: From Naturade, delivering over 100 years of nutrition expertise and recognized with a 2025 Vity Award for excellence in health and wellness products
- Convenient Weight Gain Support: BOOST Very High Calorie Nutritional Drink provides a high calorie, high protein, nutrient-packed snack or mini meal, helping you to gain weight or maintain weight
- 530 Nutrient-Dense Calories: Each 8 fl oz of this nutritional drink provides 530 calories, with 22 g of high-quality protein to help maintain muscles
- 26 Vitamins & Minerals: This calorie-dense nutritional drink provides key nutrients for immune support, including vitamins C, zinc and iron, brain health, including vitamin B12 and niacin, and bone health, including calcium and vitamin
- Delicious Nutritional Drink: This great-tasting high nutritional drink makes it easy to get back to what you love; drink over ice if you prefer a less thick drink
- BOOST family of nutritional shakes: Whether you want extra protein, less sugars, more calories, fewer calories, or simply great nutrition for everyday living, there's a BOOST Nutritional Drink that fits your needs
- 30g PROTEIN & 1g SUGAR: Each Ensure Max Protein shake has 30g protein to support muscle health and manage hunger
- 25 VITAMINS & MINERALS: Formulated with nutrients to support immune, bone, and brain health, as well as energy metabolism
- SUPPORTS DIGESTIVE HEALTH: Contains 4g fiber with a prebiotic to support digestive health
- IMMUNE SYSTEM SUPPORT: An excellent source of zinc, vitamins A & D, and antioxidants (vitamins C & E and selenium) for immune system support
- GREAT-TASTING VARIETIES: Including caffeinated flavors that have as much caffeine as a cup of coffee
- Quest Strawberry Flavored Protein Shakes deliver the smooth, fruity strawberry flavor you love with 45g of high bioavailability protein per serving so you can experience the rich satisfaction of a milkshake - without saying “no” to protein.
- Enjoy the creamy, indulgent taste of a strawberry flavored milkshake wherever you are. With 45g of protein per serving and ultrafiltered nonfat milk, this satisfying ready to drink protein shake is your go-to whenever you want a quick protein boost.
- Quest protein shakes contain 45g of protein to help sustain you, and 2g of sugar and 4g of net carbs per serving. They’re a delicious high protein shake to help you scratch the milkshake itch while hitting your protein goals.
- Offered in 4ct - 14Fl oz bottles.
- Quest turns your fave snacks into the ultimate hacks. So reaching your goals has never been tastier. Quest is big on protein, low on sugar and huge on flavor. Yep. It’s basically cheating.
- BOOST HIGH PROTEIN WITH FIBER: BOOST High Protein with Fiber nutritional shakes have 20 grams of protein for muscle health, 3 grams of fiber for digestive health plus 27 vitamins & minerals with 240 nutrient-rich calories for energy.
- WITH 2X MORE PROTEIN*: BOOST High Protein with Fiber Nutritional Shakes can help you get the protein, fiber and nutrients you need to support your active and healthy lifestyle.
- NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT: BOOST Nutritional drinks give your body nutrient-rich calories for energy, plus protein, and essential vitamins & minerals you need each day. Enhance your nutrition with protein shakes & drinks in chocolate, vanilla, & fruit flavors.
- BOOST NUTRITIONAL DRINKS: BOOST Drinks have nutrition you need & taste you love. BOOST High Protein has no artificial colors or sweeteners and is gluten-free.
- BOOST FAMILY OF NUTRITIONAL SHAKES: Whether you want extra protein, less sugars, more calories, fewer calories, or simply great nutrition for everyday living, there’s a BOOST Nutritional Shake that fits your needs.
- Balanced Nutrition For Healthy Weight Support: A calorie-dense nutrition drink mix designed to help support healthy weight maintenance with a blend of carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals without extreme bulking formulas
- Supports Active, Demanding Lifestyles: Ideal for active routines, workouts, and busy schedules when meeting daily calorie needs through food alone can be challenging
- Gentle, Nourishing Support For Your Body: Thoughtfully designed for those experiencing appetite changes, fast metabolisms, or life-stage transitions where maintaining weight feels difficult without pressure or extremes
- Flexible, Everyday Use: Enjoy between meals, blended into smoothies, or as part of a daily nutrition routine that adapts to your lifestyle - at home or on the go
- Award-Recognized & Trusted Since 1926: From Naturade, delivering over 100 years of nutrition expertise and recognized with a 2025 Vity Award for excellence in health and wellness products
Choosing the Best Weight Gain Shakes
Are you looking to add some healthy pounds and muscle? Weight gain shakes can be a super helpful tool! They pack a lot of calories and nutrients into an easy-to-drink shake. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you find the perfect shake to help you reach your goals.
1. Key Features to Look For
Calorie Count:
This is king! You need shakes with enough calories to help you gain weight. Look for shakes that offer at least 300-500 calories per serving. Some can even go higher, which is great if you have a fast metabolism.
Protein Power:
Protein is essential for building muscle. A good weight gain shake should have plenty of protein, usually between 20-50 grams per serving. Different types of protein exist, like whey, casein, and plant-based options. Whey is absorbed quickly, good for after workouts. Casein is slower, great for overnight recovery. Plant-based proteins are perfect for vegans or those with dairy sensitivities.
Carbohydrate Content:
Carbs give you energy and help with muscle recovery. Weight gain shakes often use complex carbs like oats or maltodextrin. These provide sustained energy. Some shakes add simple sugars, which can give a quick energy boost but might not be ideal for everyone.
Healthy Fats:
Fats are calorie-dense and important for hormone production. Look for shakes that include healthy fats from sources like MCT oil, flaxseed, or avocado. These add calories without making the shake too heavy.
Vitamins and Minerals:
A good shake also provides essential vitamins and minerals. This ensures you’re not just gaining weight but doing it in a healthy way. Check the label for a good range of micronutrients.
2. Important Materials (Ingredients)
Protein Sources:
Whey protein concentrate, isolate, or hydrolysate are common. Casein protein is another popular choice. For plant-based options, you might find pea protein, rice protein, or soy protein.
Carbohydrate Sources:
Oats, maltodextrin, sweet potato powder, and fruit extracts are often used. Some shakes might use simple sugars like dextrose or fructose.
Fat Sources:
MCT oil, sunflower oil, flaxseed powder, and avocado powder are good choices. Be wary of shakes that rely heavily on unhealthy fats.
Flavorings and Sweeteners:
Natural flavors and sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit are preferred. Artificial flavors and sweeteners can be a turn-off for some.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
High-Quality Protein:
Shakes with pure, high-quality protein sources will give you better results. Avoid those with lots of fillers or cheap protein blends.
Natural Ingredients:
Shakes made with natural, whole-food ingredients tend to be higher quality. They offer more nutrients and are often easier to digest.
What can reduce quality?
Excessive Added Sugars:
Too much sugar can lead to unwanted fat gain and energy crashes. Look for shakes with minimal added sugars.
Artificial Additives:
Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives are often found in lower-quality shakes. They don’t add nutritional value and can be a concern for some consumers.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Ease of Use:
Most weight gain shakes are super easy to use. You just mix the powder with water, milk, or your favorite beverage. Some even come in ready-to-drink bottles.
Taste and Mixability:
A great shake should taste good and mix smoothly without clumps. This makes it enjoyable to drink every day.
When to Use Them:
- Post-Workout: To refuel muscles and kickstart recovery.
- Between Meals: To add extra calories and nutrients throughout the day.
- Before Bed: Some slower-digesting proteins can help with overnight muscle repair.
- As a Meal Replacement (occasionally): If you’re really struggling to eat enough, a shake can help fill the gap.
Using weight gain shakes is a convenient way to boost your calorie and nutrient intake. By understanding what to look for, you can choose a product that fits your needs and helps you achieve your weight gain goals effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How many calories should a weight gain shake have?
A: Aim for shakes with at least 300-500 calories per serving. Some can have even more.
Q: What is the best type of protein for weight gain shakes?
A: Whey protein is popular for quick absorption, casein for slow release, and plant-based options are great for vegans or those with sensitivities.
Q: Do weight gain shakes have a lot of sugar?
A: Some do, but it’s best to choose shakes with minimal added sugars for healthier weight gain.
Q: Can I use a weight gain shake as a meal replacement?
A: You can use them occasionally if you’re struggling to eat enough, but they shouldn’t replace all your meals.
Q: How often should I drink a weight gain shake?
A: This depends on your goals, but often 1-2 shakes per day is recommended.
Q: Are weight gain shakes healthy?
A: They can be, especially if they contain quality ingredients and are part of a balanced diet.
Q: What should I mix my weight gain shake with?
A: Water, milk, almond milk, or even fruit juice are common choices.
Q: Can I make my own weight gain shake?
A: Yes, you can blend ingredients like protein powder, oats, fruit, and milk at home.
Q: When is the best time to drink a weight gain shake?
A: Post-workout, between meals, or before bed are popular times.
Q: Will weight gain shakes make me gain fat?
A: They can contribute to fat gain if you consume too many calories overall, but they are designed to help with lean muscle mass when combined with exercise.