8 Best Meal Replacement Shakes for Weight Gain
[Updated 2023]
8
Meal Shakes Reviewed
72
Hours of Research
110+
Reviews Examined
3
Experts Interviewed
Published by David Williams
As an engineer, David loves technical product comparison and analyzing the data to assess top products.
For many people, losing weight seems like an impossible task. However, gaining weight can also be challenging for some people. If you struggle to put on pounds naturally, meal replacement shakes for weight gain can provide an easy and convenient way to supplement your diet.
These nutrient-dense shakes help you consume more calories while filling key nutritional gaps. Whether you need to bulk up for a sport, improve your muscle mass, or gain some extra pounds, the right shake can boost you. And knowing the best meal replacement shakes for weight gain can make the journey easier.
This detailed review covers 8 best meal replacement shakes for weight gain, from protein-packed options to those high in healthy fats and carbs.
Table of Contents
What to Look For in a Meal Replacement Shake for Weight Gain
Considering the surplus of meal replacement shakes in the industry today, you might get confused while selecting one for weight gain. Here are a few tips to help you along the way:
Taste
Since you don’t want to waste your hard-earned money on something you can’t swallow, check on available flavors first. This way, you can choose the one most agreeable to your pallet. Notably, many companies are releasing innovative flavors to make your experience smoother.
High Calorie
Since you want to see the best results from the meal replacement shake you are picking for weight gain, select one with high calorie or carb levels compared to the rest. However, ensure that your focus is on more than just these nutrients to ensure healthy weight gain.
Ingredients
As mentioned earlier, looking at other ingredients for a healthy diet is necessary. Ensure the shake is packed with vitamins, minerals, proteins, and more. Also ensure the proportions suit your overall weight gain goal before purchase. A few things to look at include:
- Calcium
- Potassium
- Sodium
- Wholesome fats and oils
- Whey protein
- Vitamin D, etc.
Budget
Since several meal replacement shakes are on the market today, do not limit yourself to a budget you are uncomfortable with. Consider companies offering bonuses, free samples, free delivery, and more incentives.
Customer Reviews
Reviews left by former or active users are your best friend during the shake selection. While some might be good, also look at the bad reviews left. This step gives you a more wholesome view of the shake you are considering.
8 Meal Replacement Shakes for Weight Gain
- Lyfe Fuel All-in-one Daily Essentials Shake
- Rootana Real Food Shake
- Lyfe Fuel Performance Shake
- Purely Inspired Organic All-in-One Meal Replacement Shake
- Huel Powder v3.0
- Naked Mass Vegan Weight Gainer Supplement
- Garden of Life Raw Organic Meal Shake and Meal Replacement
- Fit & Lean Meal Shake
Lyfe Fuel Daily Essential Shake
Ingredient Quality
Taste
Price
Overall Score
Rootana Real Food Shake
Ingredient Quality
Taste
Price
Overall Score
Lyfe Fuel Performance Shake
Ingredient Quality
Taste
Price
Overall Score
1. Lyfe Fuel All-in-One Daily Essentials Shake
This meal replacement shake is a complete plant-based meal that you can have ready in less than a minute. The research-backed product combines ancient plant wisdom with over-the-top nutritional science, which aids in filling the gaps in the modern lifestyle.
It delivers the necessary nourishment for a sharper mind, and stronger body, making you live a fulfilled life. Master your metabolism, control your cravings, and energize your mornings with this complete daily nutrition solution.
Brand Overview
Why Lyfe Fuel? The brand veers toward more wholesome living by providing comprehensive nutrients to fuel your modern lifestyle. It also credits its success to natural sources and scientific research. Therefore, you can expect this innovation to incorporate the past and the future to create a healthy and natural blend.
Unlike most brands that use synthetic and highly processed ingredients, Lyfe Fuel uses nature to use its performance, healing, and nourishing plant properties.
Highlighted Features
This product’s key features include the following:
- The meal replacement shake contains 110 calorie intake per serving
- 2g of total fat
- 5g of total carbohydrate
- 18g of protein
- It’s made from plant sources
- Reduces cravings and hunger
- Supports a healthy lifestyle
- Improves your metabolic function
- Boosts energy levels
Features
The Lyfe Fuel Essentials nutrition shake perfectly combines nutrition, flavor, and convenience. It offers a one-stop solution to improve your metabolic health and fuel your everyday wellness routine.
It’s nutritionally complete and fills you with nutrient-rich, clean whole foods. The shake is intentionally low in calories and carbs, which tackles metabolic health by eliminating insulin resistance and subsequent weight gain. Its primary focus is on nutrient quality.
In addition, this shake puts you back in control because you are what you eat at the end of the day. So, why waste all your hard work by consuming the wrong stuff?
The best part? It comes in two flavors; chocolate and vanilla chai.
Pros
- It takes 60 seconds or less to prepare
- It has two flavors; chocolate and vanilla chai
- It contains powerful antioxidants for protection against free radicals.
- Its greens blend a sufficient daily dose of nutritional powerhouses.
- The flaxseed, prebiotic fiber, and plant proteins offer a complete macronutrient mix that improves metabolism and controls cravings.
Cons
- It has only two flavors
Customer Experience
Most customers have positive reviews about this Lyfe Fuel Essentials Nutrition Shake. It has a rating of 4.45/5 based on 394 reviews.
One customer said: “It’s a perfect way to start my day. I make a shake and take it to work in the morning. It staves my hunger for hours.”
Price
The Lyfe Fuel Essentials Nutrition Shake costs $70 for a one-time purchase. If you subscribe, you save 14% and get free shipping. Other subscription benefits include free samples and exclusive gifts, bonus savings earnings on referrals, VIP customer service, and an exclusive members-only discount.
2. Rootana Real Food Shake
The Rootana Real Food Shake is an extensively researched, perfectly balanced, high-protein best vegan meal replacement shakes. Compared to other shakes, it doesn’t contain refined carbohydrates, sucralose, stevia, and artificial sweeteners.
Brand Overview
Rootana is a brainchild of food scientists and nutritionists who’ve come together to create a healthy meal shake. They’ve researched and developed the meal shake using only natural ingredients from sustainable suppliers.
In addition, Rootana is certified by the Vegan Society and FDA/BRC approved.
Highlighted Features
- It contains 400 calories per serving
- It has 14g of healthy fat
- 8g of fiber
- 20g plant protein
- It contains natural ingredients only
- It has no artificial sweeteners
- Has sufficient macronutrients
- It’s high in fiber, healthy fat, complex carbohydrates, and plant proteins
Features
Unlike other meal shakes, Rootana offers completely balanced nutrition. The product’s fiber, protein, carbs, and fats constitute a healthy meal. Each shake contains 400 calories, with 7-9 g of fiber, 14 g of healthy fats, 20g of protein, and 44-46g of carbohydrates.
Its macronutrient ratio fuels and sustains your body’s needs. The product’s macro split is 4% fiber, 33% healthy fats, 20% protein, and 42% carbohydrates, which is according to what’s recommended by the IOM (Institute of Medicine).
This Rootana Real Food Shake ensures no unwanted ingredients like monk fruit, stevia, and sucralose. It contains Omega-3, which improves brain function, boosts immunity, supports muscle recovery, and offers energy for hours.
It’s the best source for balanced nutrition, thanks to its optimized combination of vitamins and minerals, fiber, healthy fats, vegan protein, and carbohydrates.
Pros
- Easy meal replacement shake to prepare and take
- It contains 27 essential vitamins and minerals
- It has a natural coconut sugar flavor
- It’s high in fiber, healthy fats, complex carbs, and plant protein
- Manufactured in BRCS/FDA/GMP-approved facilities
Cons
- It only comes in three flavors: the original, vanilla, and dark chocolate
- You can only find it on the manufacturer’s website
Customer Experience
Most customers say the shake tastes like food and doesn’t have a chalky feel. A customer said: “It has a smooth, creamy texture that is easy to mix and drink. It keeps me full and energized for hours without any crashes or cravings.”
Price
A single purchase costs $49.99, and on a subscription, you get 10% off and enjoy free delivery for orders above $70; you can cancel or pause anytime.
3. Lyfe Fuel Performance Shake
Fuel the athlete within with this Lyfe Fuel Performance Shake. It’s the best weight gain replacement shake and best kept secret for athletes who wish to perform at a high level and stay at the top of their game.
Brand Overview
Lyfe Fuel aims to empower and inspire change toward a healthier future by producing nutrient-dense products designed for modern lifestyles, rooted in science, and created by nature.
The brand creates comprehensive solutions that meet everyday nutritional challenges. They combine the latest meal replacement shakes advancements and superfood nutrition in ingredient innovation to create a product that works as intended by nature.
Unlike most meal replacement shakes brands that use synthetic and highly processed ingredients, Lyfe Fuel uses nature to use its performance, healing, and nourishing plant properties.
Highlighted Features
- The meal replacement shake has 150 calories per serving
- 3g fat
- 6g carbohydrates
- 25g protein
- 3g of sugar per serving
Features
LYFE Fuel Performance Shake is a meal replacement shake providing nutrients lacking in modern-day lifestyles. It contains 25g of plant protein per serving, essential for muscle growth and repair. The meal replacement shake provides 150 calories per serving, ideal for people who want to gain weight healthily.
It contains natural ingredients only and has no artificial sweeteners, making it a healthy option for people who want to avoid refined sugars. The shake is high in fiber, healthy fat, complex carbohydrates, and plant proteins, which makes it one of the most balanced best meal replacement shakes for weight gain.
Pros
- Provides essential nutrients for weight gain
- It contains natural ingredients only
- High in fiber, healthy fat, complex carbohydrates, and plant proteins
- Easy to meal replacement shakes to prepare and take
- It comes in Vanilla and Chocolate flavor
Cons
- It only has two flavors
Customer Experience
Most customers say that LYFE Fuel Performance Shake tastes great and doesn’t have a chalky feel. One customer states: “I’ve tried many different brands at all price points. This is one of the best at a reasonable price. Flavor is good. Not chalky or gritty. Mixes well with a shaker cup and water.”
Price
LYFE Fuel Performance Shake costs $60 for a one-time purchase and $50 per bag for a subscription. Customers who subscribe to the product get 17% off and enjoy free delivery, bonuses, and exclusive gifts. Customers can cancel or pause their meal replacement shakes subscription at any time.
4. Purely Inspired Organic All-in-One Meal Replacement Shake
Purely Inspired Organic All-in-One Meal Replacement Shake is a plant-based protein powder that provides a complete meal replacement for those seeking to gain weight or supplement their diet.
Brand Overview
Purely Inspired is a brand that offers organic and plant-based nutritional supplements. Their All-in-One Meal Replacement Shake is among the best protein powder that provides the best meal replacement shakes for weight gain. The product is certified organic and plant-based, making it an excellent choice for vegans and vegetarians.
This organic meal replacement shake from Purely Inspired delivers 20 grams of plant-based protein and only 4 grams of sugar per serving. The company aims to provide organic, plant-based supplements without artificial ingredients.
Highlighted Features
- 150 calories per serving for higher weight gain
- 20 grams of plant protein per serving
- It contains 6 grams of fiber and only 4 grams of sugar
- Made using organic fruits and vegetables
- Includes probiotics and enzymes to aid digestion
- Gluten-free
- Non-GMO and vegan friendly
Features
This meal replacement shake helps achieve weight gain goals. It contains 20 grams of high-quality plant protein, 6 grams of fiber, and 4 grams of sugar per serving. Organic fruits and vegetables are used in producing it. It also has probiotics and enzymes to support gut health, gaining weight and muscle mass.
It is suitable for many diets as it is gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan. Preparation is easy and can replace breakfast, lunch, or dinner. These meal replacement shakes are great for healthy weight gain and muscle growth.
Pros
- High calories enable you to gain weight faster
- It uses quality organic ingredients
- Acts as a complete meal substitute
- Gluten-free, non-GMO and vegan
- It contains probiotics and enzymes for digestion
- Easy to prepare and consume
Cons
- Some may find the taste too sweet
Customer Experience
Customers have generally left positive reviews. They find it easy to make and value the organic ingredients. A customer said: “The taste is perfect it really is good, filling and huge bonus! Very filling and sooooo Delicious! yummmmm!! Highly Recommend, YouTube Review first week, Fantastic Results!!”
Price
The 1.3-pound meal replacement container providing 10 servings costs $19.99. This makes it affordable for those seeking the best meal replacement shakes for weight gain.
5. Huel Powder v3.0
Huel Powder v3.0 is a favorable meal replacement shake for gaining weight. It provides all the necessary macronutrients and micronutrients in a balanced meal. The meal replacement shakes are made with natural ingredients and no artificial sweeteners.
It comes with multiple flavors, tastes great, and keeps you full and energized for hours. The product is also manufactured in FDA/GMP-approved facilities, ensuring its quality and safety.
Brand Overview
The Huel Powder v3.0 is one of the best meal replacement shakes for weight gain. Huel is a nutritionally complete powder food made by Huel Limited, a UK-based company in the market since 2015.
The meal replacement shakes are designed to provide a balanced meal with all the necessary macronutrients and micronutrients. It offers the best muscle protein synthesis for healthy weight gain and improving muscle mass.
Highlighted Features
- It contains 400 calories per serving
- 38g of carbohydrates per serving
- 29g of protein per serving to gain weight
- 13g of healthy fats per meal replacement serving
- It contains natural ingredients only
Features
Huel Powder v3.0 are nutritious powdered meal replacement shakes. It provides ideal amounts of protein, carbohydrates, essential fats, fiber, all 27 essential vitamins and minerals, phytonutrients, kombucha, and pre and probiotics. The product’s macronutrient ratio fuels and sustains your body’s needs.
The macro split is 37% carbohydrates, 29% protein, and 13% healthy fats, which is according to what’s recommended by the Institute of Medicine. Huel Powder v3.0 is made with natural ingredients only and contains no artificial sweeteners. The product is also vegan-friendly and enables you to gain weight healthily. (1)
Pros
- High calories ensure you gain weight healthily
- Easy to prepare and take
- It contains all the essential macronutrients and micronutrients
- It has a natural flavor
- Manufactured in FDA/GMP-approved facilities
- It comes in various flavors (berry, banana, chocolate, vanilla, and more)
Cons
- Some flavors may not be favorable for people with allergies
Customer Experience
Most customers say the meal replacement shake tastes great and doesn’t have a chalky feel. It is a great supplement to gain weight in a healthy way. A customer said: “I’m glad I found Huel. Gave it a go and have been purchasing every month since. Tasty, convenient and packed with vitamins, it’s a great training supplement that adds protein to my diet.”
Price
A single purchase starts from $65.00 per 2 bags, and on a subscription, you get 20% off and enjoy free delivery for orders above $59; you can cancel or pause anytime.
6. Naked Mass Vegan Weight Gainer Supplement
Naked Mass Vegan Weight Gainer Supplement is an ideal blend of complete plant-based proteins and complex carbohydrates that aid muscle growth and weight gain.
It provides 1230 calories and 50 grams of plant protein per serving, making it perfect for those wanting to gain weight. It is among the best meal replacement shakes for weight gain and is free from sweeteners, giving a great way to reach healthy weight gain goals.
Brand Overview
Naked Nutrition offers a line of supplements free from artificial additives or sweeteners. The brand is committed to delivering natural and healthy supplements. Naked Mass Vegan exemplifies this through its simple, clean ingredients.
Highlighted Features
- 1230 calories per serving
- 50 grams of protein
- Only natural ingredients
- No artificial sweeteners or additives
- Suitable for vegans and dairy-sensitive individuals
- Provides appropriate macronutrients
Features
Naked Mass Vegan Weight Gainer Supplement perfectly blends complete plant proteins and complex carbohydrates to support muscle growth and weight gain. It delivers 1230 calories and 50 grams of protein per serving, making it ideal for those wanting to gain or maintain weight.
The supplement is free from artificial additives or sweeteners, offering a healthy way to achieve weight goals.
Pros
- High calorie and protein content per serving to gain weight
- Free from artificial additives or sweeteners
- Suitable meal replacements for vegans and dairy-sensitive individuals
- Provides appropriate macronutrients
Cons
- It is limited to 3 flavors
Customer Experience
Most customers report it among the best meal replacement shakes that easily mixes and is smooth and creamy. It keeps them full and energized for hours without crashes or cravings. A customer said:
“This was the difference maker for my weight gaining journey! I absolutely loved it. It mixed really well especially given how big the serving size is. 10/10 would recommend.”
Price
A single purchase costs $64.99; subscriptions receive 10% off and free delivery over $100. You can cancel anytime.
7. Garden of Life Raw Organic Meal Shake and Meal Replacement
The Garden of Life Raw Organic Meal Shake offers a plant-based protein for consumers searching for a comprehensive whole-food meal substitute. It provides a delicious organic meal with incredible nutrients to satiate hunger, aid in weight management, and promote overall wellness.
Brand Overview
Garden of Life is a well-known brand that produces high-quality, organic, and non-GMO supplements. The company is committed to providing clean, whole-food nutrition to help people achieve optimal health.
Highlighted Features
- 120 calories per serving
- Contains 20 grams of raw, certified organic plant protein per serving
- 13 organic sprouted grains and seeds
- Gluten-free meal replacement shakes
- Soy-free and non-GMO
- Available in chocolate and vanilla flavors
Features
Garden of Life Raw Organic Meal Shake and Meal Replacement boasts 20g protein, 5g fiber, and 21 vitamins and minerals. It has 13 organic sprouted grains and seeds, greens, healthy fat, fiber, probiotics, and enzymes. It is free from gluten, dairy, soy, and GMOs, making it a perfect choice for those with dietary restrictions. (2)
Pros
- Easy to mix for an on-the-go snack or meal
- Contains 20 grams of raw, certified organic plant protein per serving
- A complete protein with 13 organic grains and seeds
- Gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and non-GMO
Cons
- Meal replacements only available in two flavors
Customer Experience
Most customers are satisfied with Garden of Life Raw organic meal replacement shake. They find it easy to mix and drink and appreciate that it contains all the necessary nutrients for a complete meal. A customer said: “The best protein and meal replacement I’ve found. The taste is great and mixes very easily. The vanilla is my favorite flavor.”
Price
A single purchase of Garden of Life Raw Organic Meal Shake and Meal Replacement costs around $35.99 for an 18.52 oz container. The price may vary depending on the retailer.
8. Fit & Lean Meal Shake
The Fit & Lean meal replacement shake aims to aid weight gain as one of the best high-calorie meal replacement shakes. It provides a high-protein, low-calorie formula enriched with dietary fiber, probiotics, and crucial nutrients.
Brand Overview
Achieving optimal health and fitness is the mission of Fit & Lean, a company devoted to assisting customers in reaching their health objectives. They provide various goods to facilitate weight loss, encourage muscle growth, and enhance total wellness and vigor.
Highlighted Features
- 150 calories per serving
- Contains 20 grams of muscle-building protein per serving
- 10-11g Fiber
- Green Coffee Bean, Garcinia Cambogia & Green Tea
- 28-30 Whole Fruits & Vegetables
- 500 million CFU Probiotics
- 26 Vitamins & Minerals
Features
Fit & Lean meal replacement shake is a high-protein, low-calorie shake designed to help with weight gain. It contains 20 grams of muscle-building protein per serving, which helps to support lean mass and greater calorie burning.
The shake is also packed with fiber and probiotics, which help to support digestive health and keep you full and satisfied. Fit & Lean Meal Shake is gluten-free and contains essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and best meal replacement option. (3)
It is also high in calories and sugar, making it an ideal option for anyone looking to gain or maintain a healthy weight.
Pros
- High in protein
- Low in calories and sugar
- It contains fiber and probiotics to support digestive health
- Gluten-free meal replacement shakes
- It contains essential vitamins and minerals
Cons
- Meal replacements only come in a limited number of flavors
Customer Experience
Customers have reported that Fit & Lean Meal Shake is among the best meal replacement option that helps with weight loss and weight management. Many customers have also reported that the shake is easy to mix and tastes great. A customer said:
“I loved the cookies and cream flavor! So easy to toss in my shaker when I’m on the go or need a quick meal without eating. It does make me full and it tastes good. I highly recommend.”
Price
A single Fit & Lean Meal Shake purchase costs around $41.99, containing 10 servings per container. This makes it an affordable and convenient meal replacement option for anyone seeking to gain or maintain a healthy weight.
Summing Up Meal Replacement Shakes For Weight Gain
Our list above has tackled what you need to look out for when looking for meal replacement shakes for weight gain. These meal shakes aren’t a shortcut to achieving your body goals. Ensure you talk to your doctor so they assess your situation and advise you accordingly.
Our top three shakes on this list have become leading brands in an already crowded market. Visit their product sites to learn more, and further assess how these shakes can help you put on the pounds.
Click to see our top picks for the best keto meal shakes, vegan meal shakes, meal shakes for weight loss, dairy-free meal replacement shakes, best tasting meal shakes, low carb, and best overall meal shakes.
David Williams
A diet and fitness enthusiast, David is an ex-Army Airborne Ranger and Infantry soldier with decades of fitness and wellness experience. A West Point graduate with a degree in engineering, he focuses on technical research related to fitness, nutrition, and wellness. He loves the beach, and spending time with his wife and daughters.
References
- MM;, M. (n.d.). Exercise and the Institute of Medicine Recommendations for Nutrition. Current sports medicine reports.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16004827/ - Groves, M. (2023, January 4). 7 great reasons to add sprouted grain bread to your diet. Healthline.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/sprouted-grain-bread#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2 Hochwald, L., Garone, S., Higuera, V., Lee, K., Revelant, J., Millard, E., Migala, J., Cherney, K., Upham, B., & Lawler, M. (n.d.). How to eat more probiotics every day. EverydayHealth.com. https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-and-nutrition/diet/ways-eat-more-probiotics-everyday/
