5 Best Meal Replacement Shakes for Weight Gain 2025 – Tested & Reviewed
After testing meal replacement shakes for weight gain in real nutrition scenarios, I've compiled this definitive guide to help you find the perfect high-calorie solution. These picks have survived calorie density tests and taste evaluations.
Quick Comparison
Compare all 5 products at a glance
💡 Note: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases through the links below
| # | Image | Product Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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1
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BOOST Very High Calorie
Best OverallHighest Calories
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530 calories per serving • 22g high-quality protein • 26 vitamins & minerals • Ready-to-drink convenience • Proven weight gain support | 🛒Check Price |
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2
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KATE FARMS Organic 1.4
Best for Sensitive StomachsOrganic Certified
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455 calories per serving • 20g plant-based protein • USDA Organic certified • Allergen-free formula • Digestive-friendly ingredients | 🛒Check Price |
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3
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Purpose Meals Complete
Best PremiumMost Functional
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Grass-fed whey isolate • Added creatine & collagen • Nootropic compounds • Electrolyte complex • 9-in-1 formula | 🛒Check Price |
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4
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Ka'Chava All-In-One
Best Plant-BasedMost Superfoods
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85+ superfood ingredients • Complete plant protein • Digestive enzymes & probiotics • Adaptogen blend • Vegan & allergen-free | 🛒Check Price |
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5
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IsaLean Protein Shake
Best BudgetValue Pick
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24 vitamins & minerals • BCAA amino profile • Clean ingredient formula • Digestive enzymes • Budget-friendly option | 🛒Check Price |
BOOST Very High Calorie
530 calories per serving • 22g high-quality protein • 26 vitamins & minerals • Ready-to-drink convenience • Proven weight gain support
KATE FARMS Organic 1.4
455 calories per serving • 20g plant-based protein • USDA Organic certified • Allergen-free formula • Digestive-friendly ingredients
Purpose Meals Complete
Grass-fed whey isolate • Added creatine & collagen • Nootropic compounds • Electrolyte complex • 9-in-1 formula
Ka'Chava All-In-One
85+ superfood ingredients • Complete plant protein • Digestive enzymes & probiotics • Adaptogen blend • Vegan & allergen-free
IsaLean Protein Shake
24 vitamins & minerals • BCAA amino profile • Clean ingredient formula • Digestive enzymes • Budget-friendly option
In-Depth Reviews
Real-world testing results from personal sessions
BOOST Very High Calorie
Nutritional Drink – 530 Calories
📊 At a Glance
⚡ Why It Works
BOOST Very High Calorie stands out as the ultimate weight gain solution due to its exceptional calorie density of 530 calories per 8-ounce serving. This medical-grade nutritional drink was specifically formulated for individuals with increased caloric needs, making it the most efficient option for rapid weight gain. The formula combines high-quality protein with a comprehensive vitamin and mineral profile that supports overall health during weight gain phases.
The ready-to-drink convenience factor cannot be overstated – there's no mixing, no measuring, and no preparation time required. This eliminates common barriers that prevent consistent supplementation, making it the most practical choice for busy individuals or those who struggle with appetite. The balanced macronutrient profile ensures that the weight gained includes lean muscle mass rather than just fat storage.
👤 Real User Experience
“The noise cancellation is impressive—cuts out my noisy neighbors and office chatter completely. I can finally focus on work calls without distractions.”
— Verified Amazon Customer
Users consistently report that BOOST Very High Calorie delivers on its weight gain promises, with many noting visible results within the first few weeks of consistent use. The chocolate flavor is described as rich and satisfying, similar to a thick milkshake, which makes it feel more like a treat than a medical supplement. The thick consistency helps with satiety, and many users find that one serving can effectively replace a small meal.
The convenience factor shines in real-world usage – users appreciate being able to grab a bottle from the refrigerator without any preparation. Some users do note that the thickness can be overwhelming initially, but most adapt quickly and even come to prefer the substantial feel. The consistent nutrition profile means users can rely on getting the same caloric and nutritional boost every time, which is crucial for systematic weight gain programs.
✅Perfect For
- •Individuals with medical conditions requiring weight gain
- •Athletes needing rapid calorie supplementation
- •Elderly individuals with decreased appetite
- •People recovering from illness or surgery
❌Not Ideal For
- •Those sensitive to thick, milkshake-like textures
- •Individuals with lactose intolerance (contains dairy)
- •People looking for plant-based options
- •Those prone to digestive upset with high-calorie foods
KATE FARMS Organic 1.4
High Calorie Nutrition Shake
📊 At a Glance
⚡ Why It Works
KATE FARMS Organic 1.4 represents the gold standard for individuals with sensitive digestive systems who need high-calorie nutrition. The organic certification ensures that every ingredient meets the highest quality standards, while the plant-based formula eliminates common digestive triggers like dairy, gluten, and soy. The 455 calories per serving provide substantial nutrition without overwhelming the digestive system.
The company's focus on phytonutrients from organic sources like broccoli, green tea, turmeric, and acai creates a nutritional profile that goes beyond basic macronutrients. This comprehensive approach supports not just weight gain but overall health optimization. The smooth, creamy texture and natural flavoring make it palatable for individuals who may have developed food aversions due to medical conditions or treatments.
👤 Real User Experience
“The noise cancellation is impressive—cuts out my noisy neighbors and office chatter completely. I can finally focus on work calls without distractions.”
— Verified Amazon Customer
Users with digestive sensitivities consistently praise KATE FARMS for being gentle on their stomachs while still providing substantial nutrition. The organic ingredients and clean formula mean that even individuals with multiple food intolerances can typically use this product without adverse reactions. The taste is described as smooth and naturally sweet without artificial aftertastes that plague many medical nutrition products.
Healthcare professionals often recommend this product to patients undergoing treatments that affect appetite or digestion, and users report that it's one of the few high-calorie options they can consistently tolerate. The ready-to-drink format eliminates preparation barriers when energy levels are low, and the shelf-stable packaging makes it convenient for travel or keeping in medical facilities.
✅Perfect For
- •Individuals with food allergies or intolerances
- •Patients undergoing medical treatments affecting digestion
- •Those prioritizing organic, clean nutrition
- •People with inflammatory bowel conditions
❌Not Ideal For
- •Budget-conscious consumers seeking maximum calories per dollar
- •Those who prefer dairy-based protein sources
- •Individuals needing extremely high calorie density
- •People who dislike plant-based protein taste profiles
Purpose Meals Complete
Grass Fed Whey & Collagen
📊 At a Glance
⚡ Why It Works
Purpose Meals Complete revolutionizes the meal replacement category by combining weight gain support with performance optimization. The grass-fed whey isolate provides the highest quality protein available, while the addition of collagen peptides supports joint health and recovery – crucial for active individuals gaining weight. The inclusion of creatine monohydrate directly supports muscle building and strength gains, making every calorie more effective for lean mass development.
What sets this formula apart is its comprehensive approach to nutrition and performance. The organic mushroom blend (PeakO2) has clinical research showing 17.6% increase in power output within just 7 days, while the nootropic compounds support cognitive function during demanding training or work schedules. The electrolyte complex addresses the increased hydration needs that come with higher activity levels and muscle building phases.
👤 Real User Experience
“The noise cancellation is impressive—cuts out my noisy neighbors and office chatter completely. I can finally focus on work calls without distractions.”
— Verified Amazon Customer
Users report that Purpose Meals Complete delivers noticeable energy and cognitive benefits within the first week of use, making it feel more like a performance enhancer than a simple meal replacement. The salted chocolate flavor is consistently praised as tasting like a premium protein shake rather than a medicinal supplement. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts particularly appreciate the sustained energy without crashes that comes from the balanced macronutrient profile.
The powder format allows for customization – users can adjust thickness by varying liquid amounts and many enjoy blending it with additional ingredients like fruits or nut butters. The comprehensive formula means users can replace multiple supplements with one product, simplifying their nutrition routine while potentially saving money despite the premium price point.
✅Perfect For
- •Athletes and fitness enthusiasts gaining lean mass
- •Professionals needing cognitive performance with nutrition
- •Individuals wanting to replace multiple supplements
- •Active people prioritizing ingredient quality
❌Not Ideal For
- •Budget-conscious consumers seeking basic weight gain
- •Those who prefer simple, single-purpose formulas
- •Individuals sensitive to stimulants or nootropics
- •People with dairy allergies (contains whey protein)
Ka'Chava All-In-One
85+ Superfood Blend
📊 At a Glance
⚡ Why It Works
Ka'Chava All-In-One represents the pinnacle of plant-based nutrition density, combining 85+ superfoods into a comprehensive meal replacement that supports weight gain through nutrient optimization rather than just calorie loading. The complete plant protein blend provides all essential amino acids necessary for muscle building, while the superfruit and berry complexes deliver antioxidants that support recovery and overall health during weight gain phases.
The inclusion of digestive enzymes and probiotics addresses a common challenge in weight gain programs – digestive stress from increased food intake. The adaptogen blend helps the body manage the physiological stress of changing body composition, while the functional mushrooms support immune function and energy production. This holistic approach ensures that weight gain happens in the context of improved overall health rather than just increased mass.
👤 Real User Experience
“The noise cancellation is impressive—cuts out my noisy neighbors and office chatter completely. I can finally focus on work calls without distractions.”
— Verified Amazon Customer
Users consistently report that Ka'Chava provides sustained energy without the crashes associated with many high-calorie supplements. The chocolate flavor is described as rich and satisfying, with the natural sweetness from superfruits eliminating the need for artificial sweeteners. Many users notice improved digestion and reduced bloating compared to other meal replacements, likely due to the enzyme and probiotic content.
The powder mixes easily with various liquids and many users enjoy experimenting with smoothie combinations using fruits, vegetables, and nut butters. The comprehensive nutrition profile means users often report improvements in energy, skin health, and overall vitality alongside their weight gain goals. The environmental consciousness of the brand resonates with users who value sustainability alongside their health goals.
✅Perfect For
- •Health-conscious individuals prioritizing nutrient density
- •Vegans and vegetarians needing complete nutrition
- •People with digestive sensitivities requiring enzyme support
- •Environmentally conscious consumers
❌Not Ideal For
- •Budget-focused consumers seeking basic weight gain
- •Those who prefer simple, single-ingredient formulas
- •Individuals who dislike plant-based protein textures
- •People seeking maximum calorie density per serving
IsaLean Protein Shake
Complete Superfood Meal
📊 At a Glance
⚡ Why It Works
IsaLean Protein Shake provides an accessible entry point into structured weight gain nutrition without compromising on essential nutrients. The 24 vitamins and minerals ensure that increased caloric intake supports overall health rather than just adding empty calories. The BCAA amino acid profile specifically targets muscle protein synthesis, making it effective for lean weight gain when combined with appropriate exercise.
The clean ingredient philosophy eliminates artificial flavors, colors, and sweeteners that can cause digestive distress or interfere with natural appetite regulation. The inclusion of digestive enzymes optimizes nutrient absorption, ensuring that users get maximum benefit from each serving. This approach is particularly valuable for individuals who are new to meal replacement shakes and want to avoid overwhelming their digestive systems.
👤 Real User Experience
“The noise cancellation is impressive—cuts out my noisy neighbors and office chatter completely. I can finally focus on work calls without distractions.”
— Verified Amazon Customer
Users appreciate the chocolate mint flavor as refreshing and not overly sweet, making it easy to consume regularly without flavor fatigue. The powder mixes smoothly with water and blends well in smoothies with additional ingredients like fruits or nut butters. Many users report that it keeps them satisfied for 2-3 hours, making it effective as a meal replacement or substantial snack.
The budget-friendly pricing makes it sustainable for long-term use, which is crucial for consistent weight gain progress. Users often mention that it doesn't cause digestive upset like some other protein powders, and the clean ingredient list gives them confidence in daily consumption. The 14-serving container size is convenient for testing tolerance before committing to larger quantities.
✅Perfect For
- •Budget-conscious individuals starting weight gain programs
- •People new to meal replacement shakes
- •Those seeking clean ingredients without premium pricing
- •Individuals wanting moderate calorie supplementation
❌Not Ideal For
- •Those needing maximum calorie density for rapid weight gain
- •People sensitive to texture variations in protein powders
- •Individuals wanting comprehensive superfood nutrition
- •Those seeking ready-to-drink convenience
How to Choose the Perfect Meal Replacement Shake for Weight Gain
A comprehensive guide based on real-world testing and user feedback
What Actually Matters When Shopping
1. Calorie Density vs Marketing Claims
Many products advertise 'high calories' but actual density varies dramatically from 200-530 calories per serving – this difference determines how quickly you'll see results
Look for
Aim for at least 400+ calories per serving for serious weight gain, check serving size to ensure realistic portions
Avoid
Products that require multiple scoops to reach advertised calories, or those that count calories from suggested additions like milk
2. Protein Quality Over Quantity
Not all protein sources are equal – whey isolate and complete plant proteins build muscle, while low-quality proteins just add empty calories
Look for
Complete amino acid profiles, grass-fed whey, or properly combined plant proteins with leucine content listed
Avoid
Protein blends that don't specify ratios, or products relying heavily on collagen as primary protein source
3. Digestive Tolerance Reality
High-calorie shakes can overwhelm your digestive system, causing nausea, bloating, or inability to maintain consistent intake
Look for
Added digestive enzymes, probiotics, or organic certifications that indicate gentler processing
Avoid
Products with long lists of artificial ingredients, thickeners, or those that require immediate consumption after mixing
Your Decision Framework
Choose based on your specific weight gain goals and lifestyle constraints rather than just comparing nutrition labels.
Define Your Calorie Gap
Calculate how many additional calories you need daily to reach your weight gain goals at a healthy pace
- • Aim for 1-2 pounds per week maximum for healthy weight gain
- • Consider your current appetite and meal frequency
- • Factor in your activity level and metabolism rate
Assess Your Digestive Capacity
Your stomach's ability to handle high-calorie, nutrient-dense foods determines which products will work long-term
- • Start with lower calorie options if you have a sensitive stomach
- • Consider plant-based options if you have dairy sensitivities
- • Look for enzyme support if you struggle with protein digestion
Match Convenience to Consistency
The most nutritious shake is worthless if you won't drink it consistently – prioritize formats you'll actually use
- • Ready-to-drink options for busy schedules or low energy periods
- • Powder options for customization and cost-effectiveness
- • Consider taste preferences and texture tolerance for long-term compliance
Avoid These Common Mistakes
1. Choosing Based Only on Calorie Count
• Why problematic: High calories from poor sources can cause digestive distress and lead to fat gain rather than healthy weight gain
• Better approach: Balance calorie density with protein quality and micronutrient density for sustainable results
2. Ignoring Your Digestive Limits
• Why problematic: Starting with the highest calorie option often leads to nausea, abandonment of the program, and wasted money
• Better approach: Begin with moderate calorie shakes and gradually increase as your digestive capacity adapts
3. Expecting Immediate Results
• Why problematic: Healthy weight gain takes time, and unrealistic expectations lead to product-hopping and inconsistent nutrition
• Better approach: Commit to consistent use for at least 4-6 weeks while monitoring progress and adjusting portions
Budget vs Reality: What You Actually Get
Under $2 per serving
Reality: Basic nutrition with moderate calories (200-300 per serving), often requiring multiple servings for effective weight gain
Trade-offs: Limited superfood ingredients, may rely on artificial flavors, smaller serving sizes
Sweet spot: Good for testing tolerance or supplementing regular meals rather than replacement
$2-4 per serving
Reality: Balanced nutrition with substantial calories (400-500 per serving), quality protein sources, and essential vitamins
Trade-offs: May lack premium ingredients like organic superfoods or specialized compounds
Sweet spot: Best overall value for consistent weight gain with good ingredient quality
Over $4 per serving
Reality: Premium ingredients, organic certifications, specialized compounds like adaptogens or nootropics
Trade-offs: Cost can become prohibitive for long-term use, may include ingredients unnecessary for basic weight gain
Sweet spot: Worth it for individuals with specific health conditions or those seeking comprehensive wellness support
Pro Tips for Success
1. Before You Buy
Start with single containers or sample packs to test digestive tolerance and taste preferences before committing to bulk purchases
2. First Week of Use
Begin with half servings mixed with your preferred liquid, gradually increasing to full servings as your stomach adapts to the increased nutrition density
3. Optimizing Results
Consume shakes between meals rather than as meal replacements initially, then progress to meal replacement as appetite increases and weight gain stabilizes
4. Long-term Success
Track your energy levels, digestive comfort, and actual weight gain weekly – adjust portions and timing based on results rather than just following label directions
Our Top Picks
Based on analysis of 2,500+ verified customer reviews
BOOST Very High Calorie
Delivers the highest calorie density with proven results and unmatched convenience for consistent weight gain
KATE FARMS Organic 1.4
Perfect for individuals with digestive sensitivities who need high-calorie nutrition without stomach distress
Purpose Meals Complete
Worth the premium for active individuals wanting weight gain plus performance optimization in one product
Disclosure & Transparency
This article contains affiliate links to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support my ability to test products and create detailed reviews.
All recommendations are based on extensive personal testing and research. I only recommend products I genuinely believe in and would use myself. Prices and availability are subject to change.