Gainers

Updated: 25 August 2026.

What is a gainer?

A gainer is a high-calorie food supplement based mainly on carbohydrates combined with protein. It is used to increase the overall energy content of the diet when obtaining enough calories from regular food alone is difficult, for example during intensive training or when the aim is to increase body mass.

At a glance

• A gainer combines carbohydrates and protein in one serving and increases calorie intake.
• The ratio of carbohydrates to protein differs considerably between products.
• Flavours include vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and many others.
• If you have diabetes or another disorder of carbohydrate metabolism, discuss high-carbohydrate products with a doctor before use.

Classic mass gainer or a more balanced formula?

The category includes several types of higher-calorie formulas:

• Classic high-carbohydrate gainers — formulas with a high carbohydrate and calorie content.
• Oat and whey gainers — products combining oat-based carbohydrates with protein.
• Post-workout protein and carbohydrate formulas — products with a different balance between protein and carbohydrates.

When comparing products, check calories per serving, protein and carbohydrate content and how the serving fits into your overall diet.

Popular gainer brands

• OstroVit — gainers in different flavours, including Delicious Gainer.
• Trec Nutrition — the Mass XXL range in different sizes and flavours.
• VPLab — Mass Builder products.
• Mass Pak — gainers in several flavours, including salted caramel.

Gainer flavours

Gainers are available in vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, banana, salted caramel and other flavours. Flavour does not change the basic purpose of the product and can be selected according to personal preference.

How to choose a gainer

• Compare carbohydrates and protein per serving.
• Check total calories per serving.
• Look at serving size and the number of servings in the pack.
• Check for additional ingredients such as creatine or vitamins and minerals.
• If you do not tolerate dairy ingredients well, check the protein source and complete ingredient list.

What else can be used alongside a gainer?

A gainer may be one of several sports nutrition products in a diet. You may also want to browse Protein and Creatine.

Frequently asked questions about gainers

What is a gainer used for and who is it for?

A gainer increases overall calorie intake by providing carbohydrates and protein in a convenient serving. It is commonly chosen when reaching the desired energy intake through ordinary meals alone is difficult.

What are the disadvantages of a gainer?

The main consideration is its high calorie content. If a gainer is added without taking total daily energy intake into account, calorie intake may exceed requirements. Serving size should therefore be considered together with regular meals and physical activity.

Can you use a gainer if you have diabetes?

Classic gainers usually contain a substantial amount of carbohydrates. If you have diabetes or another disorder of carbohydrate metabolism, discuss the suitability of such a product with your doctor before use.

What is the difference between a gainer and protein powder?

Protein powder is primarily a source of protein, whereas a gainer contains considerably more carbohydrates and usually provides more calories per serving. Protein powder is selected mainly to increase protein intake, while a gainer is typically used when the aim is to increase total calorie intake.

This information is for general reference and does not replace advice from a doctor or qualified nutrition professional, particularly if you have a chronic condition or a disorder of carbohydrate metabolism.