Best Supplements for Increasing Muscle Mass: Top Picks for Gym Buffs

Many fitness enthusiasts and athletes aim to build muscle mass.

While a balanced diet and consistent strength training are crucial, supplements can play a supporting role in maximizing gains.

I’ve found that certain supplements can help boost muscle growth, improve recovery, and enhance overall performance in the gym.

When choosing muscle-building supplements, it’s essential to consider factors like ingredient quality, dosage, and scientific backing.

I always look for products from reputable brands that use clinically studied ingredients.

It’s also important to check for potential allergens and any ingredients that might interact with medications.

Safety and efficacy are my top priorities when selecting supplements for muscle growth.

I make sure to consult with a healthcare professional before adding new supplements to my routine, especially if I have any underlying health conditions.

With the right combination of supplements, proper nutrition, and a solid workout plan, I’ve seen significant improvements in my muscle-building journey.

Best Supplements for Muscle Mass Gains

I’ve put together a list of top-notch supplements that can help you pack on some serious muscle.

These products have proven track records and are favorites among bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts.

Let’s check out the best options for boosting your gains.

Dymatize Super Mass Gainer

I’d recommend this protein powder for anyone looking to bulk up fast with its impressive calorie and nutrient content.

✔️ Pros
  • Packs a hefty 1280 calories per serving
  • Contains 52g of protein from fast and slow-digesting sources
  • Includes BCAAs and creatine for muscle growth and strength
Cons
  • May be too calorie-dense for some users
  • Large serving size can be challenging to consume
  • Limited flavor options available

This Dymatize Super Mass Gainer is a beast when it comes to packing on size.

With a whopping 1280 calories per serving, it’s perfect for those of us who struggle to get enough calories through regular meals alone.

The 52g of protein per serving is a nice mix of fast and slow-digesting proteins, which means your muscles are getting fed throughout the day.

One thing I really appreciate about this powder is the added BCAAs and creatine.

These ingredients are crucial for muscle growth and strength gains, so it’s great to see them included.

The 14 vitamins and minerals are a nice touch too, helping support overall health and recovery.

Now, I will say that the serving size is pretty massive.

It might take some getting used to if you’re not accustomed to drinking such large shakes.

The vanilla flavor is decent, but I wish there were more options to choose from.

All in all, if you’re serious about gaining mass and don’t mind drinking your calories, this Dymatize Super Mass Gainer could be a game-changer for your bulking goals.

MuscleTech Mass Gainer

I’d recommend this protein powder for hardgainers looking to pack on serious mass.

✔️ Pros
  • High-calorie formula with quality protein
  • Contains creatine for added muscle growth
  • Mixes well and tastes good
Cons
  • Very large serving size
  • Limited flavor options
  • Pricey compared to some competitors

As someone who’s always struggled to gain weight, I was excited to try MuscleTech’s 100% Mass Gainer.

This protein powder packs a serious caloric punch, with 1,500 calories per serving when mixed with milk.

That’s a game-changer for us skinny guys trying to bulk up.

The protein blend is solid, using whey and milk proteins to fuel muscle growth.

I like that they’ve added creatine monohydrate too.

It’s a proven muscle-builder that can help increase strength and size when combined with resistance training.

Mixing can be a bit tricky due to the massive serving size – we’re talking 6 scoops per shake! I found using a blender works best to avoid clumps.

Taste-wise, the vanilla milkshake flavor is pretty good.

It’s sweet without being overpowering.

One downside is the limited flavor selection.

I wish they offered more options to keep things interesting.

The price is also on the higher end, but you’re getting a lot of calories and protein per tub.

Overall, if you’re a hardgainer looking for an effective mass gainer, this one’s worth trying out.

Jacked Factory Muscle Builder

I’d recommend this supplement for anyone looking to boost their muscle-building potential and enhance workout performance.

✔️ Pros
  • Boosts ATP for increased energy
  • Improves strength and endurance
  • Can be stacked with pre-workout supplements
Cons
  • Results may vary between individuals
  • Capsule form may not be preferred by all
  • Relatively new product with limited long-term studies

This Jacked Factory Muscle Builder caught my eye with its promise of boosting ATP levels.

It’s packed with 400mg of PeakATP, which is supposed to be identical to the ATP our bodies naturally produce.

That’s pretty cool if you ask me.

What really interests me is how it claims to help you crank out more reps with less fatigue.

As someone who’s always looking to push my limits in the gym, that sounds like a game-changer.

Plus, the idea of improved strength and endurance is definitely appealing.

One thing I like is that you can stack this with your favorite pre-workout.

It’s nice to have that flexibility, especially if you’re already set in your supplement routine.

While it’s still a relatively new product, the initial reviews seem promising.

It’ll be interesting to see how it performs for different people over time.

GNC Pro Performance Gainer

I’d recommend this protein powder for anyone looking to pack on muscle mass quickly and effectively.

✔️ Pros
  • High-calorie content for rapid weight gain
  • Tasty flavor options
  • Banned substance tested for peace of mind
Cons
  • Large serving size may be filling
  • Higher price point than some competitors
  • Limited flavor selection

I’ve been on the hunt for a solid weight gainer, and GNC’s Pro Performance definitely caught my eye.

With a whopping 700 calories per serving, it’s perfect for those of us struggling to put on size.

The 50 grams of protein per scoop is nothing to sneeze at either – it’s kept me feeling full and satisfied between meals.

The vanilla ice cream flavor is pretty spot on, making it easy to gulp down.

I’ve mixed it with both water and milk, and it blends up nice and smooth.

No chalky texture here! The added MCTs are a nice touch, giving me a little extra energy boost during my workouts.

One thing to note – the serving size is pretty massive.

I found myself feeling pretty stuffed after downing a full shake.

If you’re new to weight gainers, you might want to start with half a serving and work your way up.

The price tag is a bit steep, but considering the quality ingredients and banned substance testing, I think it’s worth the investment for serious gainers.

Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass

I’d recommend this weight gainer for anyone looking to bulk up quickly and easily.

✔️ Pros
  • Packs a serious caloric punch
  • Tasty chocolate flavor
  • Loaded with protein and carbs
Cons
  • Huge serving size
  • Can be tough to mix
  • Not ideal for those watching sugar intake

As someone who’s always struggled to put on weight, I was pretty excited to try out this mass gainer.

With over 1,200 calories per serving, it’s no joke when it comes to helping you bulk up.

I found it super convenient for getting in extra calories between meals or after workouts.

The chocolate flavor is actually pretty tasty, which made it easier to drink regularly.

It’s got a good balance of protein and carbs to support muscle growth.

I appreciated that it includes vitamins and minerals too – it felt like I was getting more than just empty calories.

Mixing it can be a bit of a pain though.

The serving size is massive, so you’ll definitely want to use a blender.

I started with just one scoop instead of two and worked my way up.

If you’re watching your sugar intake, you might want to look for alternatives.

But for pure mass gaining potential, this stuff delivers.

Buying Guide

When I’m shopping for muscle-building supplements, I always look at a few key factors.

Here’s what I consider:

Ingredients

I check the ingredient list carefully.

I want to see proven muscle-building compounds like:

  • Protein (whey, casein, or plant-based)
  • Creatine monohydrate
  • Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)
  • Beta-alanine

Dosage

I make sure the supplement contains effective doses of key ingredients.

For example, I look for at least 20g of protein per serving in protein powders.

Quality and Purity

Third-party testing is important to me.

I prefer supplements that have been tested for purity and potency by independent labs.

Form

I consider whether I prefer powder, capsules, or ready-to-drink options.

This affects convenience and how I’ll use the supplement.

Value

I compare the cost per serving across different brands.

Sometimes paying a bit more for higher quality is worth it.

Taste

For powders and drinks, flavor matters.

I often read reviews to find options that taste good and mix well.

Allergies and Dietary Restrictions

I check for common allergens and make sure the supplement fits my dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free, etc.).

By considering these factors, I can choose supplements that best support my muscle-building goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve compiled answers to some common questions about muscle-building supplements.

These cover key nutrients, age-specific options, and effectiveness for different goals.

What are the top supplements for improving muscle gain and strength?

Creatine monohydrate is my top pick for muscle gain and strength.

It’s backed by tons of research.

Whey protein is another staple – it provides the building blocks for muscle growth.

Beta-alanine can boost workout performance and muscle endurance.

Which vitamins are crucial for muscle growth and recovery?

Vitamin D is super important for muscle function and strength.

I always make sure to get enough.

B vitamins, especially B12, help with energy production and muscle repair.

Vitamin C aids collagen synthesis and reduces muscle soreness.

Are there supplements that specifically help with muscle building over 40?

HMB (beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate) can be great for preserving muscle mass as we age.

I’ve found omega-3 fatty acids helpful for reducing inflammation.

Vitamin D becomes even more crucial after 40 to support muscle strength and bone health.

What are the most effective muscle-building pills available legally?

Creatine pills are my go-to for legal muscle building.

Branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) capsules can support muscle growth and recovery.

Beta-alanine supplements in pill form may enhance muscle endurance during workouts.

Can supplements significantly speed up muscle mass increase?

Supplements can support muscle growth, but they’re not magic pills.

I’ve seen modest gains when combining creatine and protein with proper training.

Consistency in diet and exercise is key.

Supplements work best as part of a comprehensive plan.

What are the recommended supplements for women aiming for muscle growth?

Whey or plant-based protein powders are great for women looking to build muscle.

Many women are deficient in iron, so I often recommend iron supplements.

Collagen peptides can support joint health during intense training.

Despite some myths, creatine is effective for women too.