Gainers promise an increase in muscle size. They not only make it easy to pack on the pounds but also gain a few inches. Experts say that in most cases, people are not aware of when to take mass gainer or weight gainer, what their side effects are, and how to choose the right product. In order to ensure that the gainer performs its best and gives maximum results, complete knowledge and understanding are needed.
Who Should Take Gainers?
The Indian market is flooded with two types of gainers – mass gainer and weight gainer.
Mass gainer: They support muscle gain and are high in protein, moderate in carbohydrates, and low in fat count. As mass gainers are rich in protein, people who are gyming hard should use them. Also, they help to gain muscle mass in the body and usually contain about 450-1000 calories.
Weight gainer: Such supplements are rich in carbohydrates, providing the body with the extra calories it needs to gain weight and fat. Weight gainers are high in carbohydrates, high to moderate in fat, and low in protein. These supplements are taken by people who struggle to gain weight. Despite healthy habits, high metabolism or any other medical condition might prevent such people from gaining weight. Notably, weight gainers usually contain 700-1000 calories per serving.
Who Should Not Take Gainers?
You should opt for a gainer, weight or mass, depending on the body type and your exercise regime. Someone who is looking to build muscles must definitely not take a weight gainer, as it will have the opposite effect on their body. Also, if you feel that you are getting the nutritional requirement from your food, then check with your dietician before introducing a gainer or any other supplement to your diet.
When Should You Take Gainers?
There is no correct time when to take mass gainer or weight gainer, the main focus should be on getting the required nutrients and calories that suit the purpose of taking the gainer.
Mass gainers: The best time to take a mass gainer is early in the morning as the body has already exhausted the nutrients during sleep and is now in the catabolic state. A mass gainer will help the body enter the anabolic state. Mass gainers are also pretty effective when they are taken just before or after any workout. After a workout, the body has higher metabolism and starts to consume nutrients at a rapid rate. Taking a mass gainer now provides the body with protein and calories that are needed to preserve muscle mass.
Weight gainers: They are taken by those who wish to gain weight. Though weight gainers can be taken at any time of the day, it is advised to be taken at a fixed time. There are different kinds of weight gainers that are formulated for pre workout, meal replacements, or an addition to the meals to further increase the calorie level. Weight gainers that are taken immediately before or after a workout have a higher amount of carbohydrates and as little fat as possible.
Recommended Dosage of Gainers
There is no particular dosage that is fixed for gainers. However, gainers are best taken under the supervision of a dietician or a trainer. Read the label carefully and follow the dosage mentioned.
Side Effects of Gainer
As is with any product, sometimes taking gainers can cause some side effects. The side effects of gainer could be caused by taking a lot of micro and macronutrients at the same time in a concentrated form. Some of these side effects are:
- Unhealthy weight gain can be caused by taking gainers as some of them have added sugar to sweeten the product. Artificial sugar is packed with calories without the necessary fibres. To regulate this extra weight gain, regular exercise is imperative.
- Some liver problems can occur as one of the side effects of gainer. The health supplement is fatal when mixed with alcohol.
- Muscle pulls and cramps may occur as an indirect side effect of gainers as people tend to train exhaustively, hoping to provide extra support from the gainer. This often results in muscle pulls and cramps as the body suddenly is overexerted.
- Stomach pain and bloating are also caused by taking supplements. These usually arise due to food allergies and intolerance. If people who are lactose intolerant take any gainer with milk, they suffer these problems.
Conclusion
Though very much in trend, it is important to have complete knowledge of gainers. For gym enthusiasts who are looking to build muscle and bulk up, mass gainers are the best option. For people who wish to build muscle without bulking up, whey protein is a better option. It is recommended to follow expert advice and not believe that one size fits all.
Is it ok for a beginner to take mass gainer before any workouts
Yes, you can take mass gainers before any workout. This will help provide the body with protein and calories that are needed to preserve muscle mass. However, in some people it may cause some gastric discomfort if consumed in large amount just before the workout.
Can we use mass gainer as pre-workout meal as i am an hosteler and dont have time to cook in early morning (i workouts early in morning)..
If yes then can we take it with bcaa,L-Arg or not ?
Yes, mass gainers can be used as pre-workout meals as they provide enough calories and protein needed for preserving muscle mass. BCAAs are essential amino acids that play a crucial role in muscle protein synthesis, and they can be combined with mass gainers for better muscle recovery.
I read and understand everything
Should I finish the drink all at once?
Whether you consume a mass gainer drink in one go or divide it into several servings depends on your personal preference and your tolerance to handle a large volume of liquid. If you have a sensitive stomach, it may be advisable to divide the serving into smaller portions for easier consumption
Can I take weight gain products without doing work out?
Yes, you can take weight gainers but taking weight gainers without engaging in physical activity can lead to unhealthy weight gain. Rapid or excessive weight gain without exercise can pose health risks, such as an increased risk of diabetes or metabolic issues.
It is good if I take mass gainer before dinner???
Yes, you can take mass gainer before dinner if it aligns with your dietary and fitness goals. Mass gainers are typically high in calories and carbohydrates so if you are eating dinner that is already rich in protein, carbohydrates, and calories, then adding a mass gainer on top of it might lead to excessive calorie intake. On the other hand, if your dinner is relatively light, a mass gainer can help you meet your nutritional goals.