Protein Shake Consumption for Weight Gain Diet Optimal Results?

Question

Hi, I've been hitting the gym hard now for over a year now, and while I've become much stronger I'm still skinny. I have a slender build, but that's no excuse. I'm 17 years old, and my coach is really pushing me to put on some mass. I really need the extra weight to improve my game too. I'm currently 6'6", 165 (yeah) pounds. In the 6 weeks I've started this weight gain diet I've gained 5 pounds, while eating a good 4-5 small meals a day and taking my normal protein shake right after I lift which is 3 days a week. Without changing my meal schedule I'm curious how many protein shakes should I have and when, to adequately help my weight and strength gain.

My protein shake is CYTOGAINER Lean Muscle Maximizer. Each drink has 54g of whey protein, as well as 75g of carbohydrates and 3g creatine. The container says take 3 a day, but I'm lost for answers. I'm entirely committed to putting on some serious muscle mass for next season, and I need some help.

Answer 1

Well done on starting a new diet and starting to gain weight.  You must realise by now that the reason you are still skinny is because you aren't eating enough for what your body needs.

With protein powders, there really isn't much difference between the different brands so buying a more expensive version is just costing you money that you don't need.  However the thing to watch out for is the added sugars and sweeteners, so you might be making a good choice there, but you should check it.

Whether or not you should take three drinks a day is down to how well you are already eating.  In theory you shouldn't need to take a shake at all and remember that that manufacturer is trying to sell you shake so following their recommendations is something you should think twice about.

I'd suggest that you start from scratch on your nutrition, use one of the online trackers such as fitday.com.  Yes these are designed for dieting but they will allow you to see just how well you are eating.  You may find that you are low in certain vital nutrients.  In this you are your own best coach because you know the foods that you like, but there are some good articles if you follow the link below, join and then access the nutrition section.

I'll assume for now that you are actually doing the sorts of exercises that actually promote muscle growth because just eating right isn't good enough.