Although weight gain is ultimately determined by your calorie intake -- you must consume more calories than you expend each day to gain weight -- taking some supplements might encourage weight gain. These supplements range from high-calorie protein powders to calorie-free testosterone boosters. While supplements might help you reach your goals of gaining weight, you should consult a doctor before using any supplements.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of dietary fat purported to have a number of health benefits, including aiding in brain development and possibly reducing the risk of heart disease, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In addition, omega-3 supplements might aid in weight and muscle gain. A study published in the October 2003 issue of the journal "Gut" found that weight and muscle gain were improved when participants took an omega-3-enriched, high-calorie supplement compared with those who took the supplement alone.
Creatine
Creatine is a naturally occurring substance that is found in small amounts in meat. Supplementing with creatine might provide performance benefits, including strength gains and, possibly, weight gain. According to research published in the December 2009 issue of the "Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research," creatine supplementation, in conjunction with resistance training, might increase strength, weight and lean muscle mass.
Testosterone Boosters
Although you need a prescription to receive supplemental testosterone, there are many supplements available over the counter that contain ingredients that might increase your body's testosterone levels by encouraging an increase in hormonal production. As research from the October 1993 issue of the "Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism" explains, testosterone might reduce levels of body fat while increasing weight and muscle mass.
Weight Gain Powders
Weight gain powders, commonly called weight gainers, are high-calorie supplements that contain large amounts of protein and carbohydrates. Because these supplements contain 1,000 calories or more, consuming them in addition to your regular diet can encourage weight gain. Weight-gainer powders often include creatine, which can increase the potential for weight gain.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- "Gut"; "Effect of a protein and energy-dense N-3 fatty acid-enriched oral supplement on loss of weight and lean tissue in cancer cachexia: a randomised double blind trial"; K.C. Fearon et al; October 2003
- "Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research"; "The effects of creatine monohydrate supplementation with and without D-pinitol on resistance training adaptations"; C.M. Kerksick et al; December 2009
- "Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism"; "Body composition and muscle strength in healthy men receiving testosterone enanthate for contraception"; N.R. Young et al; October 1993
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