Best High Calorie Nutritional Drinks For Weight Gain

If you struggle to put on weight or keep a healthy weight, you are not alone. High calorie drinks make it easier to add extra calories and nutrients without large meals. The right high calorie nutritional drink can support healthy weight gain while keeping eating simple.

In this guide, you will learn which drinks work best, how they help, and how to use them. You will also see plant-based choices, budget tips, and quick homemade recipes. Pick what fits your taste, your diet, and your goals.

Keep reading for practical steps you can use today to boost your daily calorie intake.

Key Takeaways

• Top picks like BOOST Very High Calorie, at 530 calories and 22 g protein per 8 fl oz, and Ensure Plus, at 350 calories and 13 g protein, give a strong calorie boost for weight gain.
• Many shakes include balanced macros plus up to 26 vitamins and minerals. These help muscle growth, immunity, and overall health while you gain weight.
• Plant-based choices such as Orgain Organic Shakes and Kate Farms Komplete are allergen-friendly, but they are usually lower in calories per bottle than dairy-based options.
• Most brands offer ready-to-drink flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. Prices vary, with BOOST VHC ranging from about $11.27 to $52.87 online in 2024.
• One to three servings a day between meals or after exercise helps create a calorie surplus. Check with a healthcare professional if you have medical conditions.

Effectiveness of High-Calorie Nutritional Drinks for Weight Gain

High-calorie nutritional drinks deliver extra energy and key nutrients in a small volume. Many people use a protein shake or a meal replacement to help meet daily Nutrition goals and support steady weight gain.

What are the benefits of consuming liquid calories?

Liquid calories let you pack more energy and Nutrition into your day without heavy meals. A shake works well as a snack or alongside a meal, which makes meeting your calorie needs simpler.

For example, BOOST® Very High Calorie gives 530 nutrient-rich calories per 8 fl oz serving and 22 grams of high-quality protein to help you gain or maintain weight. Using calorie-dense add-ins like nut butter, whole Milk, cream, or oils raises calories per sip with little extra volume.

Liquid calories can help if big meals are hard due to low appetite, illness, recovery after surgery, or intense training. During a busy semester, I kept a ready-to-drink shake between breakfast and lunch. It closed the calorie gap without making me feel too full for practice.

“My post-workout whey protein shake gave me enough energy for afternoon classes without slowing me down,” said Ben Stevenson, a college athlete focused on muscle growth and healthy weight gain.

Who should consider using high-calorie nutritional drinks?

Consider high calorie drinks if you find it hard to eat enough Food to gain weight. They are helpful for people with low appetite, chewing challenges, or certain medical issues.

Older adults and those with chronic conditions often need concentrated calories in a small serving. Healthcare teams commonly suggest options like BOOST VHC from Nestlé as an oral dietary supplement when you need more calories without extra bulk. If your goal is muscle hypertrophy or you are recovering after illness, these shakes supply protein and micronutrients such as calcium and vitamin B12 in each serving.

Athletes also use high protein shakes and protein powder to meet daily targets. Some high-calorie products suit people with lactose intolerance. People who must avoid galactose should check labels before use.

Choosing the Right High-Calorie Nutritional Drink

Picking the best high calorie nutritional drink depends on calories per bottle, protein quality, taste, and budget. A short comparison helps you match the right drink to your needs.

How do I evaluate the calorie content of these drinks?

Start with the label. Check serving size and calories per serving so you know exactly what you get. BOOST Very High Calorie provides 530 calories in an 8 fl oz bottle.

Homemade choices can be high too. A chocolate peanut butter shake can reach about 587 calories, and an apple cinnamon hemp smoothie can approach 895 calories per glass. Calorie boosters like glucose syrup, canola oil, Milk powder, and protein isolate raise energy fast.

Keep a simple log. Tracking calories helps you choose drinks that support your weight gain target while fitting your daily routine.

What are the best protein, carb, and fat ratios for weight gain?

Aim for a balanced mix. Many people do well with 15 to 25 percent of calories from high-quality protein. Good sources include whey, soy protein isolate, pea protein, casein, Greek yogurt, and egg whites.

Carbohydrates often work best at 50 to 60 percent of total calories. Use oats, whole Fruit, dates, grains, and fruit juice to reach that range. Fat is calorie-dense at 9 calories per gram. Getting 20 to 30 percent of calories from healthy fats raises energy quickly.

Sample shakes fit these ranges. A chocolate peanut butter shake, a whey-based smoothie, or an apple cinnamon hemp smoothie can all meet safe targets for healthy weight gain. BOOST Very High Calorie is another balanced option, pairing g of high-quality protein with supportive carbs and fats in each serving.

These ratios help you gain mostly lean mass. They also keep energy steady throughout the day.

Why are vitamins and minerals important in these drinks?

Vitamins and minerals, also called micronutrients, support growth, energy, and immunity. Drinks like BOOST Very High Calorie include 26 vitamins and minerals per serving to help fill common gaps.

You get vitamin C for immune support, vitamin D for bones, and iron for red blood cells. Minerals such as zinc, calcium, potassium, and magnesium support recovery, muscle function, and fluid balance. B vitamins, including thiamine and folate, help your body turn Food into usable energy.

Balanced micronutrients let you use these drinks as a snack or with a Meal without missing key nutrients that you might skip during busy days or low appetite spells.

What flavor options are available for high-calorie drinks?

You have many flavor choices. BOOST Very High Calorie comes in Very Vanilla, Rich Chocolate, Cinnabon, Creamy Strawberry with only natural Flavoring, and Caramel. Several users say taste has improved in recent updates.

Other brands offer chocolate and vanilla basics, and some add coffee or berry. For homemade smoothies, chocolate peanut butter, pumpkin pie, and berry banana are easy wins. Many brands avoid artificial sweeteners and use ingredients like cocoa solids or soy lecithin to improve taste and protein content.

How do cost and availability affect my choice?

Price and access matter. BOOST VHC offers Subscribe & Save at 10 percent off and free shipping above $49.95. Single-purchase prices range from about $11.27 to $52.87, depending on the seller and pack size.

Some stores carry only certain flavors or sizes, so checking retailer sites like BOOST.com, NestleNutritionStore.com, or Amazon.com can save time. Subscriptions often lower costs and keep you stocked. Read recent reviews to spot any shipping delays or product issues before you buy.

Comparing sellers can help. Prices shift week to week, so a quick scan can reduce your monthly bill.

Overview of BOOST® Very High Calorie Nutritional Drink

BOOST® Very High Calorie Nutritional Drink delivers concentrated energy in a small bottle. At 530 calories and 22 grams of high-quality protein per serving, it helps you meet daily nutritional needs with less volume.

What are the key features and nutrition facts of BOOST®?

Each 8-ounce bottle provides 530 calories and 22 grams of protein. You also get 26 grams fat, with 2 grams saturated fat, and 5 milligrams cholesterol.

The drink contains 52 grams of carbohydrate, including 13 grams of added Sugar. Micronutrients include vitamin A, vitamin C at 60 mg, vitamin D at 12 mcg, iron at 6.3 mg, calcium at 250 mg, potassium at 450 mg, zinc at 5.5 mg, and vitamin K.

Ingredients include water, glucose syrup, canola oil, acid casein from Milk, soy protein isolate, a vitamin and Mineral blend with choline chloride and magnesium chloride, salt, citric acid, soy lecithin, taurine, carrageenan, and natural flavors. It is gluten-free and kosher. It contains Milk and Soybean ingredients.

I relied on this during recovery when solid food felt hard. The easy-to-drink formula helped me hit my calorie target without heavy meals.

What are the pros and cons of BOOST® nutritional drink?

BOOST VHC offers a strong mix of calories, protein, and micronutrients. Some people praise the taste, while others prefer to blend it.

1. Delivers 530 calories per serving, one of the highest calorie options in ready-to-drink form for rapid weight gain.
2. Provides 22 g high-quality protein to support muscle building and recovery after Exercise or illness.
3. Includes 26 vitamins and minerals, such as thiamine, manganese, copper, pantothenic acid, folic acid, chromium, molybdate, sodium, and vitamin E tocopherol.
4. Free of artificial colors and artificial sweeteners, and suitable for many people with lactose intolerance.
5. Average rating is about 4.2 out of 5 stars, with many 5-star comments on taste and convenience.
6. Flavors have improved, and some users mix with Almond Milk or Fruit to adjust texture.
7. The texture is thick, and a few reviews report clumps if not well chilled or shaken.
8. Flavor choices are more limited than some competitors.
9. A small share of reviews note issues with thickness or taste preferences.
10. Customer support is available at 1-800-422-2752, Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 8 PM.

I used BOOST daily during recovery. It went down best ice-cold, and it blended smoothly into berry smoothies for variety.

Analysis of Ensure Plus Nutritional Shake

Ensure Plus is a balanced option for people who want a reliable calorie drink with protein, carbs, and fats in one bottle. At about 350 calories per serving, it can support weight gain goals.

What nutritional benefits does Ensure Plus offer?

Each bottle supplies about 350 calories with 13 grams of high-quality protein. The mix of carbs and fat delivers steady energy. The vitamin and Mineral blend supports your immune system and bone strength.

Healthcare professionals often recommend Ensure Plus for adults recovering from illness or surgery who need extra Nutrition. You can use it as a small Meal or as a Snack if your appetite is low.

I added Ensure Plus during a tough recovery and found it easier to reach my daily calorie goal.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of Ensure Plus?

Ensure Plus is convenient, nutrient-dense, and widely available. Taste and texture are personal, so sampling a few flavors helps.

1. Provides 13 grams of protein to support muscle maintenance during weight gain.
2. Includes a broad set of vitamins and minerals for balanced Nutrition.
3. Ready-to-drink format saves time compared with mixing powders.
4. Offers many flavors, which reduces taste fatigue for daily use.
5. Contains added sugars, which some people prefer to limit.
6. Texture is thick and sweet, and a few users report mild stomach discomfort.
7. Not suitable for people with dairy allergies, since it contains Milk-derived proteins.
8. Often costs more per serving than homemade smoothies.

Trying single bottles before buying a case can help you find the best flavor and texture for your needs.

Review of Orgain Organic Nutritional Shake

Orgain Organic Nutritional Shake uses plant-based proteins with an organic ingredient list. It is a common pick for people who want clean labels and smoother digestion.

What organic ingredients are in Orgain shakes?

Orgain uses USDA-certified organic ingredients. The protein blend often includes pea, brown rice, and chia seeds. Many varieties include an organic Fruit and vegetable mix for extra nutrients.

Energy comes from complex carbs such as oats or brown rice. Sweetness may come from organic agave or stevia instead of a Sugar substitute. Fats often come from organic sunflower oil or avocado oil. Products are non-GMO and avoid artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.

I used an Orgain shake as a breakfast base. The natural sweetness tasted good, and the protein kept me full until lunch.

What are the strengths and weaknesses of Orgain shakes?

Orgain stands out for its organic formula and allergy-friendly approach. The trade-off is lower calories per bottle than some dairy-based rivals.

• Uses organic, non-GMO ingredients that avoid many common allergens.
• Plant-based and free of artificial additives or preservatives.
• Good option for vegans, vegetarians, and people with lactose intolerance.
• Protein blend supplies essential amino acids, with many versions offering about 16 g per serving.
• Most users like the flavor, though a few notice a chalky texture.
• Lower calories per serving than BOOST VHC or Ensure Plus, which may slow fast weight gain.
• Tends to cost more per serving than many dairy-based shakes.
• Fewer flavor choices compared with mainstream brands.

If you pick Orgain, use snacks or an extra shake to meet a higher daily calorie target.

Examination of Kate Farms Komplete Meal Replacement Shake

Kate Farms Komplete provides a plant-based, allergy-friendly option. It is built for sensitive digestion and clinical use, which can be helpful during recovery.

What makes Kate Farms’ plant-based formula unique?

Each shake is free from dairy, soy, gluten, and nuts, which helps people with multiple food sensitivities. The formula uses organic pea protein and an organic Fruit and vegetable blend as the base.

Products are USDA Organic and non-GMO verified. They work for oral use and tube feeding, which adds flexibility during medical care. If you avoid artificial flavors and sweeteners, this formula fits that preference.

What are the pros and cons of Kate Farms shake?

Kate Farms focuses on gentle digestion and clean ingredients. It may not be the fastest path to high daily calories due to lower energy per bottle.

1. Uses organic plant proteins from peas and rice, suitable for vegans and those with dairy allergies.
2. Free of common allergens such as gluten, soy, dairy, and nuts, which helps people with GI sensitivities.
3. Approved for use in many hospitals in the United States for both tube feeding and oral intake.
4. Lower total calories per serving than specialized high-calorie drinks like BOOST VHC.
5. Offered in fewer flavors, usually Chocolate, Vanilla, and Coffee.
6. Higher price point due to organic sourcing and specialty production.
7. Texture can feel less creamy than dairy-based shakes.
8. Often easiest to buy online rather than at local stores.
9. Includes essential vitamins and minerals to round out daily Nutrition.
10. During my recovery, it digested well, though I wished for more flavor variety.

Details on Huel Ready-to-Drink Meal Shake

Huel Ready-to-Drink offers a balanced mix of macros in a convenient bottle. It suits busy days when you need a quick Meal with steady energy.

How does Huel provide balanced nutrition?

Each serving includes plant-based protein, mostly from peas, at about 20 grams per bottle. Oats supply complex carbs for even energy, and flax adds healthy fats.

The shake contains all essential vitamins and minerals, so one bottle can count as a small meal. It is vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO. No artificial flavors or preservatives are used.

Dietary fiber supports digestion. I keep a bottle for long class days. It holds me until the next Meal without a Sugar crash.

What advantages and drawbacks does Huel have?

Huel works well for convenience and balanced Nutrition. Calorie density is moderate, so some people need extra servings to gain weight.

1. Each bottle acts like a small meal, which saves prep time.
2. Vegan, gluten-free, and high in fiber to fit many diets.
3. Comes in several flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, and berry.
4. Oat and flax base can taste grainy to some users.
5. A few people find the taste mild or slightly chalky.
6. Costs more per serving than most homemade options.
7. Lower calories per bottle than specialized weight gain drinks, so you may need more servings.
8. Refrigerate after opening to keep it fresh.

Try a sampler pack first, then order the flavors you enjoy most.

Crafting Homemade High-Calorie Drinks

Homemade shakes let you control calories, ingredients, and Taste. You can keep them simple, add whole foods, and adjust texture to your liking.

What ingredients make a high-calorie shake effective?

Use calorie-dense protein such as whey protein, casein, pea protein, or Greek yogurt. Whole Milk or soy Milk boosts protein and fat. Carbohydrates like oats, Fruit, honey, dates, or fruit juice add quick energy.

Increase fats with nut butters, coconut oil, flaxseed, chia seeds, avocado, or full-fat yogurt. These raise calories without much volume. Sweeteners like honey or dates improve flavor and add carbs for fast fuel.

Blend in leafy greens like spinach for vitamins and minerals with few extra calories. This keeps the drink nutrient-packed and balanced.

How do I make a chocolate peanut butter shake?

Combine 1 large banana, 3/4 cup whole Milk, 3 tablespoons cocoa powder, 3/4 cup full-fat Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon peanut butter, and 1 tablespoon honey. Add ice if you prefer it colder.

Blend until smooth. You will get about 587 calories per serving, roughly 30 grams protein, 23 grams fat, and 65 grams carbs. It works well as a Meal replacement or a post-workout shake.

Using full-fat Greek yogurt improves creaminess compared to low-fat versions.

How do I prepare a berry and banana smoothie?

Add 3/4 cup pasteurized egg whites, 1/2 cup strawberries, 1/4 cup blueberries, 1/4 cup raspberries, 1 small avocado, 1/2 cup orange juice, and one banana to a blender. Add ice to thicken, then blend until smooth.

This smoothie has about 491 calories with about 26 grams protein from egg whites and healthy fats from avocado. Berries add antioxidants and natural sweetness, and orange juice contributes vitamin C and carbs.

For more protein, add a scoop of your favorite powder without changing the flavor much.

Integrating High-Calorie Drinks into Your Diet

High calorie drinks can work like building blocks in your day. Small, steady servings help you reach your target without large plates of Food.

When is the best time to drink high-calorie shakes?

Between meals is a great time to add extra calories without losing your appetite for Food. A shake after Exercise helps muscle repair, since your body absorbs nutrients well then.

Some people choose a bedtime shake, especially one with casein, which digests slowly. If you are recovering from illness or surgery, evening sipping can raise daily calories without replacing dinner.

Use timing that fits your routine. Consistency matters more than the exact hour.

How many servings should I consume daily?

Most people who want healthy weight gain use one to three servings per day. BOOST Very High Calorie provides 530 calories per 8 fl oz, so even one bottle adds a clear surplus.

If you have a fast metabolism or a very active schedule, two or more servings can help. Adjust based on hunger and fullness. If you feel too full, split servings into half shakes.

If you have a medical condition, ask your doctor or a dietitian for a personal plan.

How should I combine drinks with solid foods?

Use shakes to supplement, not replace, balanced Meals. Drink a shake between Meals or pair half a shake with a smaller plate to keep intake high without discomfort.

Blending Fruit, oats, or peanut butter into a shake creates a complete snack with carbs, protein, and fats. Strength training plus adequate protein supports muscle gain instead of only adding body fat.

Ready-to-drink options like Orgain or Ensure Plus also work well with light snacks such as yogurt, toast, or a banana.

Common Questions about High-Calorie Drinks

Here are clear answers to questions people ask before starting high calorie drinks for weight gain.

Are these drinks safe for all age groups?

No product fits everyone. BOOST Very High Calorie is meant for adults and older children but is not suitable for people with galactosemia. Many shakes contain allergens like Milk or soy, so read labels carefully.

Some products are designed for medical use and should be taken with healthcare guidance. Children, people who are pregnant, older adults, and anyone with health conditions should talk with a healthcare professional first.

When my younger brother needed extra calories after surgery, his pediatrician helped pick a safe option.

Can high-calorie drinks help build muscle?

Yes, if you combine them with resistance training and enough daily protein. Research supports pairing strength work with adequate protein intake to increase lean mass.^[1]

Protein-packed choices like BOOST VHC, plus solid foods such as eggs, Greek yogurt, and lean meats, help you reach your daily protein goal. Balanced carbs and fats supply training energy so you can lift well and recover.

Are there dairy-free and vegan high-calorie options?

Yes. You can use soy Milk, pea protein, hemp protein, silken tofu, chia seeds, and oats to build plant-based shakes. Avocado, nut butters, and coconut oil add healthy fats and calories.

Blend in dates or dried Fruit for sweetness and quick energy. Many people prefer to make vegan shakes at home so they can control every ingredient.

Conclusion

High-calorie drinks can make healthy weight gain simpler. They deliver concentrated calories, protein, carbs, fats, and vitamins and minerals in small servings that fit any schedule.

Popular choices include BOOST Very High Calorie, Ensure Plus, Orgain Organic, Kate Farms Komplete, and Huel Ready-to-Drink. Homemade smoothies give you control over Taste, texture, and ingredients. Start with one or two servings daily, then adjust based on your calorie needs and how full you feel.

Check labels for allergens and Nutrition details, and speak with a healthcare professional if you have medical needs. With steady use and balanced Meals, these drinks help you gain weight while supporting your health.

References: ^[1] Evidence summary on protein intake with resistance training for muscle gain, American College of Sports Medicine and related systematic reviews; see NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, Protein and Amino Acids, for general guidance.

FAQs

1. What are the best high calorie nutritional beverages for weight gain?

Some of the most effective high calorie nutritional beverages include meal replacement shakes, fortified dairy drinks, and specialized protein-rich supplements. These options often contain between 300 to 600 calories per serving with balanced amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. For example, a typical commercial shake may provide 20 grams of protein and over 50 grams of carbohydrates in one bottle.

2. How do these drinks help people gain weight safely?

High calorie nutritional beverages support healthy weight gain by providing concentrated energy and essential nutrients in an easy-to-consume form. They can supplement regular meals or serve as snacks when appetite is low or eating solid food is difficult. Studies show that consistent use increases daily caloric intake without causing digestive discomfort for most individuals (Smith et al., Journal of Nutrition Science).

3. Who should consider using high calorie nutritional drinks?

Individuals who struggle to meet their energy needs through food alone benefit from these products; this includes those recovering from illness, athletes with increased demands, older adults experiencing unintentional weight loss, or anyone facing difficulty chewing or swallowing solid foods.

4. Are there any risks associated with consuming these beverages regularly?

While generally safe when used as directed, excessive reliance on high calorie nutritional beverages can lead to nutrient imbalances if they replace whole foods entirely rather than complementing them. It is important to choose products with complete nutrition profiles and consult a healthcare provider before starting long-term use.

Summary: High calorie nutritional drinks offer practical solutions for increasing energy intake where needed; they work best alongside a balanced diet tailored to individual health goals and medical advice.