BOOST Very High Calorie Nutritional Drink is the best pick for most readers seeking high calorie protein shakes for weight gain because it delivers 530 calories and 22 g of protein per 8 oz serving, with 26 vitamins and minerals to support overall health.
What to remember
Look for shakes providing at least 500 calories and 20 grams of protein per serving to support weight gain effectively.
Check the ingredient list for added sugars and artificial sweeteners, especially if you have blood sugar concerns.
Ready-to-drink shakes offer convenience but usually cost more per calorie than powders or mixes.
Mass gainer powders provide very high calories and carbs but can be heavy and cause bloating for some.
Customize DIY shakes with whole foods for better taste control and nutrient balance if you prefer.
Gaining weight healthily means adding calories and protein without sacrificing nutrition or convenience. High calorie protein shakes offer a practical way to boost your intake, especially when solid food volume feels overwhelming.
Choosing the right shake can be confusing with so many options on the market. This guide highlights top products, key features to compare, and who each shake suits best to help you decide quickly.
Top High Calorie Protein Shakes for Weight Gain
#1Best Overall
BOOST Very High Calorie Nutritional Drink, Very Vanilla
Best for Most readers needing high calories and balanced nutrients
BOOST Very High Calorie Nutritional Drink delivers 530 calories and 22 g of protein per 8 oz serving, along with 26 vitamins and minerals to support immune, brain, and bone health. Its nutrient-dense formula suits those who want a convenient, ready-to-drink option for weight gain or maintenance. The vanilla flavor is versatile and can be enjoyed over ice for a lighter texture.
Calories per Serving 530Protein per Serving 22 gVitamins & Minerals 26Form Ready-to-drink
Why it made the cut
High calorie and protein content per small serving
Includes 26 essential vitamins and minerals
Ready-to-drink for convenience
Mild vanilla flavor that mixes well
Good to know
Thicker texture might not suit everyone
Contains added sugars
Skip it if Choose another if you prefer powders or need fewer calories per serving.
BOOST Very High Calorie Nutritional Drink, Chocolate
Best for Those who want a chocolate flavor with the same nutrition as vanilla
This chocolate-flavored BOOST shake offers the same 530 calories and 22 g of protein as the vanilla version, plus 26 vitamins and minerals. It supports muscle maintenance and overall health, ideal for people who want a nutrient-rich, calorie-dense drink that tastes like a treat. Ready-to-drink packaging adds convenience for busy days.
Calories per Serving 530Protein per Serving 22 gVitamins & Minerals 26Form Ready-to-drink
Why it made the cut
High calorie and protein per serving
26 vitamins and minerals included
Chocolate flavor for variety
Ready-to-drink convenience
Good to know
Texture can be thick for some
Contains added sugars
Skip it if Pick this if you prefer chocolate over vanilla but want similar nutrition.
Best for Adults needing moderate calories and immune support
Ensure Plus delivers 350 calories and 16 g of protein per serving, with 27 vitamins and minerals including zinc, vitamins A, C, and E for immune support. It’s clinically proven to help adults gain weight and can be used as a meal replacement or snack. The strawberry flavor is pleasant and easy to drink for those who want moderate calories with nutrient support.
Calories per Serving 350Protein per Serving 16 gVitamins & Minerals 27Form Ready-to-drink
Why it made the cut
Clinically proven to help weight gain
Includes 27 vitamins and minerals
Moderate calorie and protein content
Strawberry flavor is mild and enjoyable
Good to know
Lower calorie count than some others
Less protein per serving
Skip it if Go for a higher calorie option if you need more energy per serving.
Naturade Weight Gain Nutrition Drink Mix, Chocolate
Best for People who prefer powder to customize shakes
Naturade Weight Gain Nutrition Drink Mix provides a balanced blend of carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals to support healthy weight maintenance without extreme bulking. It suits active lifestyles and those who want flexibility to blend shakes with other ingredients. The chocolate flavor works well in smoothies or as a standalone drink mix.
Calories per Serving —Protein per Serving —Vitamins & Minerals —Form Powder
Why it made the cut
Balanced nutrition with carbs and protein
Flexible powder form for customization
Supports active and demanding lifestyles
Gentle on appetite and digestion
Good to know
Calories per serving not specified
Requires preparation and measuring
Skip it if Avoid if you want a ready-to-drink product or need exact calorie counts per serving.
Dymatize Super Mass Gainer 52g Protein Powder, Rich Chocolate
Best for Serious muscle gain and intense workout recovery
Dymatize Super Mass Gainer packs 1,280 calories and 52 g of protein per serving, blending fast and slow-digesting proteins with added creatine and 14 vitamins and minerals. This powder suits those aiming for rapid muscle growth and high-calorie intake, especially athletes and bodybuilders. It can be mixed into smoothies or calorie-packed treats to boost energy and recovery.
Calories per Serving 1280Protein per Serving 52 gVitamins & Minerals 14Form Powder
Why it made the cut
Very high calorie and protein content
Includes creatine for strength support
Contains 14 essential vitamins and minerals
Mixes well in smoothies and recipes
Good to know
Large serving size may be too much for some
Higher carbs may not suit all diets
Powder requires preparation
Skip it if Choose a lower calorie or ready-to-drink option if you want simplicity or fewer calories.
How Many Calories and Protein Should Your Shake Have
High calorie protein shakes for weight gain should offer between 500 and 1300 calories per serving. This range lets you match your appetite and goals without overwhelming your digestion. Shakes at the lower end suit those with smaller appetites or moderate weight gain targets, while higher calorie options support aggressive gain or higher energy needs.
Protein is key for muscle maintenance and growth; aim for 20 to 50 grams of protein per serving. This amount supports repair and lean mass gains alongside resistance training or daily activities. Too little protein in a high-calorie shake risks gaining mostly fat.
Balanced macronutrients—carbohydrates, fats, and protein—matter. Shakes with good carb and fat sources help your body use calories efficiently and avoid excessive fat storage. For example, carbohydrates provide quick energy while fats slow digestion and add calorie density.
Beware shakes with very high sugar content. They can cause bloating, rapid blood sugar spikes, and energy crashes that make regular intake uncomfortable or unsustainable. Look for products with added sugars under 20 grams per serving.
Many find products like BOOST Very High Calorie Nutritional Drink fit well here. An 8 oz serving delivers 530 calories and 22 grams of protein, plus 26 vitamins and minerals to support overall health and muscle gain needs.
Calories per Serving
Protein per Serving
Recommended Use
500-800
20-30 g
Moderate weight gain or smaller appetite
800-1300
30-50 g
Aggressive weight gain or higher energy needs
Calorie and protein targets for weight gain shakes
Check the Label
For sustainable gains, choose shakes with a balanced macro profile and moderate sugar, not just calorie count.
In short
Aim for 500-1300 calories and 20-50 grams of protein per shake. Avoid very high sugar to support steady energy and muscle growth.
What Ingredients Matter in Weight Gain Shakes
Sugars and sweeteners in weight gain shakes affect both calorie content and blood sugar. Natural sugars add energy, but too much added sugar can cause blood sugar spikes and digestive discomfort. Artificial sweeteners add sweetness without calories but don’t contribute to weight gain.
Protein types differ in digestion speed. Whey isolate is fast-absorbing, making it good right after exercise. Casein digests slowly, supporting muscle repair overnight. Many shakes blend these proteins to provide both quick and sustained amino acid delivery.
Vitamins and minerals in shakes support immune function and bone health, especially important during weight gain phases when nutritional demands rise. Look for products with a broad vitamin-mineral profile to cover these needs.
Fats from sources like MCT oil or nuts add calorie density without increasing the volume of the shake. These fats are energy-rich and can help avoid feeling overly full while still delivering calories.
Does drinking zero calorie soda make you gain weight? No, zero calorie drinks don’t add calories and won’t cause weight gain by themselves. However, they don’t provide nutrients or calories needed for muscle growth, so they don’t help weight gain either.
Can you gain weight drinking zero calorie drinks? Not from the drinks themselves. Weight gain requires a calorie surplus from foods or drinks that provide energy. Zero calorie drinks can be part of a hydration strategy but won’t contribute calories.
Myth
Zero calorie drinks cause weight gain
Fact
They provide no calories, so they do not cause weight gain. Any weight changes come from other foods or drinks you consume.
Look for Quality Ingredients
Choose shakes with natural proteins, moderate sugars, added vitamins, and healthy fats to support effective and healthy weight gain.
Who Should Choose Ready-to-Drink Shakes vs. Powders or Mixes
Ready-to-drink (RTD) shakes suit those who want immediate nutrition without any prep. These come fully mixed, so you can grab a bottle on the go and drink it right away. They’re excellent for busy days, travel, or when you don’t have kitchen access. However, they usually cost more per serving than powders and have a shorter shelf life once opened.
Powders and mixes are more cost-effective and let you control the thickness, flavor, and calorie count by adjusting the water or milk you add. You’ll need a blender or shaker bottle to prepare them, which takes a few minutes. These are ideal if you want a flexible, budget-friendly option and don’t mind the extra step.
Mass gainer powders pack the highest calories per serving, often exceeding 1000 calories, which helps when you need a large calorie boost. But they can be heavy and sometimes cause bloating or digestive discomfort, so start with smaller portions to see how your body reacts.
Shelf life and storage are important. RTD shakes usually require refrigeration after opening and can spoil quickly. Powders last longer unopened and are easier to store in bulk. For portability, RTD bottles win since you don’t need to carry extra tools or powders.
Regarding stimulation, high protein drinks generally do not “wake you up” because they contain little or no caffeine. If you want to avoid caffeine jitters, steer clear of energy drinks or caffeinated supplements that may be combined with some powders.
Drinking zero-calorie sodas like Coke Zero by themselves won’t cause weight gain because they contain no calories. Weight gain requires a calorie surplus. However, these sodas don’t provide nutrition or protein, so they don’t support muscle gain or healthy weight increase.
Worked example
Say you grab an RTD shake for a quick 530-calorie boost at work. On rest days, you mix a powder at home with milk to add calories gradually. This combo matches your lifestyle and budget while supporting steady weight gain.
RTD calories530
Powder caloriesup to 1200
Good for
People seeking convenience and portability
Those wanting precise calorie control
Budget-conscious buyers
Those who tolerate heavier shakes
Not for
People on tight budgets
Those without prep tools
Anyone sensitive to bloating from high-calorie powders
Users needing long shelf life
How to Use High Calorie Protein Shakes for Best Results
Use high calorie protein shakes as snacks or mini meals to add calories without replacing full meals. This helps you increase your total daily intake steadily without missing essential nutrients from whole foods.
Post-workout is a prime time to drink these shakes. Your muscles absorb protein and carbs more efficiently then, supporting recovery and growth.
Pair your shakes with resistance training like weight lifting. The extra protein and calories will help you build muscle rather than just fat.
Increase your calorie intake gradually to avoid digestive discomfort such as bloating or nausea. Start with one shake a day and add more as tolerated.
Zero-calorie, zero-sugar drinks like Coke Zero do not cause weight gain on their own because they provide no calories. They also don’t fuel muscle growth or repair, so they can’t substitute for protein shakes in your weight gain plan.
Though Coke Zero won’t make you fat, relying on it instead of calorie-rich foods or shakes can slow your weight gain progress if you don’t meet your calorie needs elsewhere.
1
Step 1
Drink a high calorie protein shake between meals to add extra calories without reducing your appetite for regular food.
2
Step 2
Consume a shake within 30 minutes after resistance training to aid muscle repair.
3
Step 3
Adjust your shake volume slowly, increasing by 100 to 200 calories every few days to gauge tolerance.
4
Step 4
Combine shakes with a balanced diet rich in whole foods for best overall health and weight gain.
Gradual Increase
If you feel bloated or uncomfortable, slow down your shake intake growth and drink more water to ease digestion.
When to Avoid High Calorie Protein Shakes or Use With Caution
Zero-calorie drinks like Coke Zero do not contain calories to directly cause weight gain, but they can sometimes lead to bloating or increased hunger, which might affect your overall calorie intake.
If you have diabetes or blood sugar concerns, watch the sugar content in weight gain shakes closely. Opt for low-sugar or no-added-sugar options to avoid blood sugar spikes.
Digestive issues call for caution. Try different protein types such as whey, soy, or pea protein, and start with small servings to see how your body tolerates them.
Consuming a large calorie surplus from shakes without regular physical activity may increase fat gain rather than muscle.
Before adding high calorie protein shakes to your diet, especially if you have medical conditions, discuss it with your healthcare provider. They can help tailor your nutrition safely.
Digestive Sensitivity
If you notice bloating, gas, or discomfort after a shake, reduce serving size or switch protein sources to find what suits you best.
When to Call Your Doctor
Seek medical advice if you experience persistent digestive pain, blood sugar fluctuations, or unexpected weight changes after starting protein shakes.
Severe or worsening abdominal pain
Uncontrolled high blood sugar
Rapid weight gain or swelling
Questions People Ask
Can I gain weight drinking zero calorie or zero sugar sodas?
Zero calorie or zero sugar sodas do not provide calories, so they won’t directly cause weight gain. However, some people find these drinks increase appetite or lead to bloating, which can indirectly affect your overall calorie intake and weight. If you drink them, watch how your body responds and adjust your diet accordingly.
How many high calorie protein shakes should I drink daily for weight gain?
Most people aiming to gain weight can start with one to two high calorie protein shakes daily alongside regular meals. This adds extra calories without replacing whole foods, helping you increase your intake gradually. Your exact needs depend on your metabolism, activity level, and weight gain goals.
Is it better to drink a protein shake before or after workouts?
Drinking a protein shake after workouts can support muscle recovery and growth by providing protein when your muscles need it most. Some prefer a shake before exercise for energy and to prevent muscle breakdown. Either timing works, but post-workout is generally more beneficial for weight gain through muscle.
Will high calorie shakes cause belly fat?
High calorie shakes add calories that can lead to overall weight gain, but whether that includes belly fat depends on your diet, exercise, and genetics. Using shakes as part of a balanced plan with strength training helps promote muscle gain rather than fat. Avoid excessive intake beyond your calorie needs to limit unwanted fat gain.
What if I feel bloated after drinking a weight gain shake?
Bloating after a high calorie shake can happen if it’s high in fiber, lactose, or certain sweeteners. Try smaller servings, drink slowly, or choose lactose-free or low-fiber options. If bloating persists, talk to your healthcare provider to rule out food intolerances or digestive issues.
Are mass gainer powders safe for long-term use?
Mass gainer powders are generally safe when used as directed and combined with a balanced diet. Long-term reliance on them alone may miss out on whole food nutrients, so it’s best to use them as supplements rather than meal replacements. Check ingredient lists for added sugars and artificial additives if you plan regular use.
Can I replace meals entirely with protein shakes for weight gain?
Replacing meals entirely with protein shakes is not recommended for most people because you miss out on important nutrients found in whole foods. Use shakes to supplement your diet and add calories, but keep regular meals for fiber, vitamins, and minerals. If you must replace a meal, choose a well-balanced shake with diverse ingredients.
