[naturalguy]

Real Gains FAQ

One of the most common goals for all bodybuilders is to add mass. So often I see guys asking questions about weight gainers. So I thought I’d post a weight gainer FAQ. Hope this is useful. If you have any specific questions, you can PM or email the great guys in the customer service department at info@universalnutrition.com.

Should I use a weight gainer?
Maybe... It depends on a lot of things. Are you looking at the weight gainer as a shortcut, a quick fix? The first question you should ask yourself is, “Is my diet in order?” In other words, are you getting enough calories from whole foods? Food is anabolic. Food is your first line of defense. If you don’t have your meals in order, then supplements just aren’t going to work as effectively. Remember, supplements are just that—supplements. A weight gaining supplement is not meant to be a substitute for food. It should “supplement” your existing food/meal plan.

So then who should use a weight gainer?
Again, this assumes your diet is in order… Basically, you can use a weight gainer if you’re looking to add extra calories to your diet. It might be a convenience issue—it’s a lot easier to mix up a pre-made shake than prepare a full meal. Or, it might be that you have a small appetite. A solid weight gainer, because it digests quickly and efficiently (improved “gastric emptying”), will make it possible to eat another meal without feeling overly “full”. Food like oatmeal and beef, for example, take a while to digest. If you’ve already got food digesting in your stomach, you can see how hard it would be to eat another meal. One other thing to consider—ectomorphs and classic “hardgainers” stand to gain more from using a weight gainer as individuals with this body type tend to have a harder time putting on weight.

What should one look for in a weight gainer?
A weight gainer should provide a nutritionally dense blend of the core macronutrients (i.e., protein, carbohydrates and essential fats). Second, it should be low in simple sugars and high in complex carbohydrates. Third, it should contain high quality proteins such as whey and casein--these provide both a quick and a sustained release of key amino acids into your body. Fat content should also not be overlooked since added essential fats help to increase the calories of each shake and aid in natural hormone production.

When is the right time to use a weight gainer?
There really is no “right” time. Depending on your goals, a weight gainer can be taken first thing in the morning, between meals, postworkout or before bed. Again, you should tailor it to your needs and what you’re trying to accomplish. There is no “one size fits all” approach.

How often should I use a weight gainer?
This once again depends on your goals. Remember, a weight gainer is to be used to supplement the calories you are already getting from a balanced, bodybuilding diet consisting of numerous daily whole food feedings. Depending on your diet and particular goals, anywhere from once to three times daily can lead to marked improvements. Experimenting is key.

How does Real Gains fit into all this?
Real Gains is a high-calorie, low sugar weight gainer that consists of a special blend of protein, complex carbohydrates and essential fatty acids (EFAs). Real Gains takes whey protein (including isolates) and combines with premium micellar casein, which rather than being quickly absorbed, provides a steady stream of amino acids into the bloodstream. As a result, you get the best of both worlds--while whey is better at sparking muscle protein synthesis, micellar casein is superior in its ability to prevent catabolism (muscle breakdown), thus making the ideal protein blend. For carbs, Real Gains incorporates a blend of maltodextrin, which is a low DE complex carbohydrate. Maltodextrin contains “glucose polymers”, which are easier for the body to assimilate and use. Inulin, a special fiber, helps the growth of healthy intestinal flora which can allow for better nutrient absorption. So we discussed the importance of protein and carbs, but what about fat? Fats are key in hormone synthesis and are the essential component of all cells. The important fats to look into are the essential fatty acids. Real Gains is loaded with 6 grams of key fats from flax oil (EFAs) and MCT’s.

What can I mix in with Real Gains?
Water or milk. If you need some extra calories, skim milk does nicely. If you’re looking for slightly more calories, try whole milk. In any case, shoot for about 10-12 ounces of either water or milk, to taste. Because Real Gains uses instantized ingredients, you can actually mix the shake with a spoon if you want—a blender isn’t necessary.

[Reaper329]

this is a solid gainer, and mixes very well. I usually go with skim milk or water, but very solid

[Universal Rep]

Originally Posted by Reaper329

this is a solid gainer, and mixes very well. I usually go with skim milk or water, but very solid

Strawberry Real Gains, shaker bottle, water--ready to go.

[Animal Rep]

Originally Posted by Universal Rep

Strawberry Real Gains, shaker bottle, water--ready to go.

I am a chocolate guy myself

[BS55]

Chocolate RG, half cup of oats, 2 TBS of Natty PB, Ice and water... Put in Blender, Chug, GROW!

[JDawg1983]

Originally Posted by BS55

Chocolate RG, half cup of oats, 2 TBS of Natty PB, Ice and water... Put in Blender, Chug, GROW!

A definite recipe for gains there BS.

[wrasslin116]

I still havn't got around to this.. I've always wanted to try it tho. Looks very solid.

[BS55]

Originally Posted by wrasslin116

I still havn't got around to this.. I've always wanted to try it tho. Looks very solid.

Well worth every penny you spend on it! Plus when your finished you have a handy bucket for day!!!

[wrasslin116]

Ha yeah, get that nice big bucket after!

[Universal Rep]

Originally Posted by BS55

Well worth every penny you spend on it! Plus when your finished you have a handy bucket for day!!!

I hate leg day.

[BS55]

Originally Posted by Universal Rep

I hate leg day.

SAY WHAT?

[Animal Rep]

Originally Posted by Universal Rep

I hate leg day.

U-Rep is soft. Must be one of those guys who lives on the leg extension.

[Animal Rep]

Originally Posted by BS55

SAY WHAT?

My thoughts exactly. See that is why he is U-Rep and I am ANIMAL Rep

[Hoomgar]

I heard rumors that a 10 lb tub was in the making? Any truth to this?

Hg

[B Con]

Originally Posted by Hoomgar

I heard rumors that a 10 lb tub was in the making? Any truth to this?

Hg

I heard a 20 lb tub

[Hoomgar]

Originally Posted by B Con

I heard a 20 lb tub

Seriously?!? That would rock!