4 Essential Things to Know Before Buying a Mass Gainer

People who want to change their physique from thin to muscular can hope for mass gainers or weight gainers. To make the right choice when buying a mass gainer, you should consider the following 4 factors. 

As the name suggests, mass gainers and weight gainers help you gain mass and weight. Weight gain is largely attributed to eating more calories than you will burn. If you are a bodybuilder, what are you trying to gain? Are you overweight due to your pot belly or are you overweight due to your muscle mass? Certainly, it's going to be muscle mass, and in this case, a mass gainer can be beneficial.

Explore further:

• What constitutes a mass gainer?
• How does a mass gainer impact your body?
• Understanding your lean body mass
• Unraveling the role of mass gainers

Tips on selecting the right mass gainers

A mass gainer isn't solely a protein supplement; it includes carbohydrates as well. It's commonly referred to as a weight gainer. While these terms are often used interchangeably, there's a distinction in their composition, particularly in the ratio of protein to carbs. Mass gainers provide a blend of proteins, carbs, and, optionally, high-quality fats and multivitamins.

The protein-to-carb ratio in mass gainers typically varies from 1:3 to 1:5. This ratio serves as a key indicator to differentiate between a mass gainer and a weight gainer. 

Typically, mass gainers adhere to a 1:3 ratio of protein to carbs, while in weight gainers, this ratio increases to 1:5. 

HOW DOES A MASS GAINER AFFECT YOUR BODY

Mass gainers provide additional calories along with carefully balanced macronutrients, including proteins, carbs, and high-quality fats, conveniently mixed in a shake. These nutrients play a crucial role in enhancing your strength, size, and stamina. 

The process involves creating a calorie surplus, especially when targeting the enlargement of specific muscle groups such as the chest, back, and biceps. This surplus entails consuming more calories than your body expends in a day.

To determine the ideal calorie intake for building lean muscle mass while minimizing fat accumulation, what should be the specific calorie number?

WHAT COMPRISES YOUR LEAN BODY MASS

Lean body mass encompasses muscle, bone tissue, and internal organs, excluding the subcutaneous fat beneath the skin surface. To determine your lean body mass, follow these steps: 

• Convert your weight from kilograms to pounds (1 kg = 2.2 pounds).
• Utilize a smart weighing machine that provides your body fat percentage.
• Subtract your body fat percentage from 100 to obtain your lean muscle mass percentage (e.g., if your body fat percentage is 20, your lean muscle mass percentage is 80).
• Divide your lean muscle mass percentage by 100 to convert it to a decimal (e.g., 80 divided by 100 equals 0.80).
• Use a calculator to multiply 0.80 by your body weight in pounds. For example, a 60 kg male would yield 105.6 pounds.
• Multiply the weight of your lean muscle mass in pounds by 20 to determine the calorie number.

105.6x20 =2112 calories

To boost your calorie intake and support the development of lean muscle mass, it's crucial to be aware of your lean muscle mass and establish a suitable calorie allowance. Adhere to this allowance to effectively build lean muscle!

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF MASS GAINERS

Individuals facing challenges in gaining weight often encounter difficulties due to factors like a hectic lifestyle, varying appetite levels, or a high metabolism. In such cases, meeting calorie requirements becomes a challenge. Mass gainers prove beneficial, provided the right choice is made.

SELECTING THE APPROPRIATE MASS GAINER

The key is to opt for a supplement that promotes muscle gain without encouraging fat accumulation. Consequently, steering clear of unhealthy food choices like doughnuts, burgers, and pizza is essential for those striving to build muscle. Calories should be sourced from high-quality nutrients, including proteins, complex carbohydrates, beneficial fats, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. 

The ratio of protein and carb

The protein-to-carbohydrate ratio is crucial for effective muscle building. Proteins, composed of amino acids, play a vital role in muscle development, while complex carbohydrates offer a sustained energy source, enabling more intense workouts. The recommended ratio of proteins to carbs typically falls within the range of 1:3 to 1:5.

How much sugar is present in the mass gainer

Evaluating the sugar content in your mass gainer is equally important. A mass gainer should not contain an excessive amount of sugar, with levels exceeding 6g per 100g serving indicating a potentially suboptimal product. It's essential to invest in premium nutrients rather than paying for unnecessary sugar. Thus, carefully reading the label before purchasing is advisable.

Does it have multivitamins?

Considering additional components in your mass gainer is crucial. Check for the presence of multivitamins, which contribute to energy and immunity. B vitamins, in particular, play a crucial role in converting food into energy, making them essential for regular gym-goers.

Does it have creatine?

Creatine is another valuable element to look for in a mass gainer, as it enhances energy levels for intense workout sessions. Building muscle mass requires challenging your limits, and creatine provides the necessary energy to do so.

HOW TO USE YOUR MASS GAINER FOR BEST RESULTS

To maximize the benefits of your mass gainer, follow the recommended usage instructions provided on the label.

Given the high carb and protein content, consuming it post-workout, before meals, at bedtime, or upon waking up can be effective. However, it's crucial to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and not exceed the recommended dosage.

Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet alongside regular workouts is essential. With consistent use and a balanced lifestyle, you can achieve a commendable physique.