Weight Gain Shakes: Do Protein Shakes Really Help You Gain Weight?

Gaining weight might sound easy, but for many skinny guys (and girls), it’s a real struggle. You eat all day, never skip meals, but still can’t add a single kilo to your frame. That’s where weight gain shake come in. They’re quick, convenient, and packed with nutrients to help boost your calorie intake.
But the real question is: Do protein shakes actually help you gain weight? MusFitBoost break it all down.
What Are Weight Gain Shakes?
Weight gain shakes are calorie-dense beverages that help you meet your daily calorie goals, especially if you struggle to eat enough through regular meals.
There are two main types:
- Protein Shakes for Weight Gain – Typically made with whey, casein, or plant-based protein powders, combined with milk, fruits, and nuts.
- Weight Gainer Shakes – These are mass gainers sold in stores, which include protein, carbs, sugars, and fats — often delivering 600–1200 calories per serving.
You can buy them ready-made or make powerful shakes at home using ingredients already in your kitchen.
Do Protein Shakes Make You Gain Weight?
Short answer? Yes — if you’re in a calorie surplus.
Protein shakes are not magic potions. They won’t automatically add fat or muscle unless you consume more calories than you burn.
For someone with a fast metabolism or poor appetite, drinking calories (rather than eating them) makes it easier to stay in surplus. That’s where weight gain shakes become helpful.
Even a basic shake with 1 scoop of protein, 1 banana, peanut butter, and milk can offer 400–600+ calories.
Can Protein Shakes Make You Gain Fat?
Yes, if you consume them in excess without exercising. Like any food, extra calories = fat gain. That’s why it’s best to combine weight gain shakes with strength training or resistance workouts, so you convert the surplus into muscle instead of fat.
Best Time to Drink Weight Gain Shake
Timing does matter, especially for skinny guys trying to gain lean mass. Here’s what works best:
- Post-Workout: Your muscles are hungry for nutrients. A protein shake helps with recovery and growth.
- Morning: Boosts your calorie count right from the start.
- Before Bed: Gives your body nutrients to repair overnight.
- Between Meals: As a snack to increase total calorie intake.
You don’t need to overthink timing — what matters most is consistent daily intake of weight gain shake.
Homemade Weight Gain Shake Recipes
Homemade weight gain shake are often healthier, cheaper, and more customizable than store-bought ones. Here are three easy recipes you can try:
1. Banana Peanut Butter Shake
- 1 banana
- 2 tbsp peanut butter
- 1 scoop protein powder (optional)
- 300ml whole milk
- 1 tbsp honey
Calories: ~500–600
2. Oats & Dry Fruit Mass Gainer
- 3 tbsp oats (soaked or cooked)
- 5–6 almonds
- 3–4 dates
- 1 scoop protein or Sattu
- 300ml milk
Calories: ~600+
3. Chocolate Weight Gain Shake
- 1 scoop chocolate protein
- 1 banana
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp peanut butter
- 300ml milk
- Ice cubes
Calories: ~500
Tip: Add 1 tbsp of ghee or coconut oil for extra calories if needed.
Weight Gainer Shakes vs. Homemade Shakes – Which Is Better?
Feature | Store-Bought Gainers | Homemade Weight Gain Shakes |
Calories | 600–1200+ | 400–800+ |
Cost | High | Budget-friendly |
Ingredients | Often processed | Natural |
Nutrients | More carbs, less fiber | Balanced |
Best For | Quick mass gain | Healthy weight gain |
Verdict: If you’re looking for long-term results, homemade weight gain shakes are safer and more sustainable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
If you’re drinking protein or weight gain shakes but still not gaining weight, you might be making one of these mistakes:
- Not tracking calories – You must be in a surplus, or shakes won’t help.
- Skipping meals – Shakes should be in addition to, not a replacement for, meals.
- Choosing low-calorie shakes – Make sure your shakes have at least 400+ calories.
- No workout plan – Without resistance training, you may gain only fat.
- Inconsistent intake – Drinking one shake a week won’t cut it. Be regular.
Final Verdict: Are Weight Gain Shakes Enough?
Yes, but they are just one piece of the puzzle.
If you’re skinny and struggling, weight gain shakes make it easier to hit your daily calorie goals — especially when you have a small appetite or a busy schedule.
Just make sure:
- You’re eating enough total calories
- You’re working out (preferably weight training)
- You’re staying consistent for at least 4–6 weeks
FAQs
Can protein shakes make you gain weight?
Yes, if they contribute to a calorie surplus. Add them to your diet, not replace meals.
Do protein shakes make you gain weight?
They can, especially when combined with high-calorie ingredients like milk, bananas, and peanut butter.
Will protein shakes make you gain weight?
Only if your total calorie intake is more than what you burn daily.
Does protein shakes make you gain weight?
Grammatically, it’s “do protein shakes.” And yes, they do — if used correctly.
Do protein shakes help you gain weight?
Absolutely. They’re a convenient way to boost calorie and protein intake for muscle gain or general weight gain.
Final Tip:
Start with one shake per day, track your weight weekly, and increase calories if needed. Don’t expect overnight results — weight gain is a journey.