As a rule of thumb, we suggest only four types of supplements: protein powder, creatine, nitric oxide boosters, and weight gainers. This article will be detailing the best supplements for muscle growth in each category.
Protein Powder
Whey protein has been scientifically proven to have the highest rate of absorption among all proteins, including soy and egg whites. It’s also incredibly high in leucine, which can increase muscle mass by stimulating the release of hormones that build muscle. Whey isolate is the purest form of whey protein and will be the first ingredient you look for. If it’s not, move on to a different brand. Whey concentrate contains less protein per serving than isolate, but it also has less lactose and carbs. While some people can digest it just fine, those who have trouble with whey may prefer concentrate.
Creatine
Creatine is the single most scientifically backed supplement on the market. It’s been proven beyond a shadow of a doubt to increase strength and power, which will enable you to lift heavier and train harder. There are tons of different types of creatine on the market today, but they’re all made from three basic compounds: monohydrate, citrate, and nitrate. Choose monohydrate for the best bang for your buck, especially if you’re on a budget. This tried-and-true form of creatine has been used successfully by athletes all over the world.
Nitric Oxide Boosters
Nitric oxide boosters are some of the most popular products on the market today. They tend to be a bit pricey, but they deliver rapid results in the gym because they’re stimulant-based. These products contain L-arginine, which is converted into nitric oxide within your body. By increasing your NO production, you’ll feel an intense sensation of blood flow that will immediately translate into bigger lifts in the gym. Choose any NO product that contains L-citrulline, which is actually better for your body to use than L-arginine. The additional benefit of purchasing a product like this is that it tastes like candy and has very few side effects (it’s not as stimulating as other types of NO boosters).
Weight Gainers
Though they aren’t as popular as they used to be, weight gainers can be a very useful tool for those who have difficulty packing on size. Since they contain tons of protein and carbs per serving, they’re the most efficient way to get big without resorting to frequent meals throughout the day.
Casein
Casein is another popular type of protein that makes a good compliment to whey. It absorbs more slowly than whey, allowing for a steady release of amino acids over several hours.
Egg Albumen
This is actually the complete egg white, but it’s filtered and dried to remove the fat and cholesterol so that all you’re left with is pure protein. It contains high amounts of cysteine, an amino acid needed for producing glutathione, which helps eliminate free radicals.
Milk Protein Isolate
This type of protein is similar to whey in that it’s a byproduct of the cheese-making process, but it isn’t as well studied and doesn’t have quite as much research backing its effectiveness. Still, it does perform relatively well in most studies and is very popular among bodybuilders for its low lactose content.
Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)
BCAAs are the amino acids leucine, isoleucine, and valine. They’re critical for muscle growth because they stimulate your body to produce more human growth hormone (HGH), which helps you build lean mass when combined with resistance training. BCAAs also reduce post-workout fatigue by fighting off cortisol — the stress hormone that breaks down muscle tissue. They can be found in protein powders, of course, but you’ll also find them sold as single supplements. Pure BCAA powder is considered to be the best value because it’s much cheaper than buying BCAAs in pill form.
Testosterone Boosters
Testosterone boosters come in several forms, but all of them work similarly. They contain a variety of herbs and extracts that stimulate your body to make more testosterone, such as tribulus terrestris and longjack (a type of tongkat ali). Though they won’t boost your testosterone production if it’s already normal or low, they can help you increase your T levels by as much as 50% if they’re deficient. The best boosters contain a 100:1 extract of longjack, which is the most potent form available .
Carnitine
This amino acid-like compound helps shuttle fatty acids into your mitochondria so that they can be used for energy. It’s especially useful for burning off the fat that covers your abs and obliques, which can make getting lean easier.
Best Supplements for Muscle Growth
Many people feel whey protein is the best way to go, especially for those who are lactose intolerant or have a hard time digesting large quantities of proteins. However, feel free to experiment with different forms of protein and find which one works best for you. Creatine is another popular supplement that will almost certainly elicit a positive result. There’s no such thing as “too much” creatine, so feel free to experiment with different forms and dosages until you find the perfect one for you. Nitric oxide boosters are third on our list of muscle-building supplements, but they’re still very popular among bodybuilders because they work. They’ll increase your energy in the gym and enable you to lift heavier weights than ever before. Just remember that NO boosters are casual supplements, not necessities. You can definitely get big without them if you’re willing to put forth the effort. If you have trouble gaining weight, then a quality weight gainer is probably your best bet. They’re very dense in calories (700 to 800 per serving) and contain 50 grams of protein, which is more than most people eat in an entire day. Plus, they taste like dessert. Remember, however, that not all weight gainers are created equal. Oftentimes they’ll contain cheap protein sources like maltodextrin and sodium caseinate (a slow-acting form of casein). If possible, stick with a product that uses whey concentrate instead. Vitamin D is essential for everyone — men and women alike. It enables your body to absorb calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. Vitamin D supplements are also very useful for preventing the flu during cold weather months. Taking supplements to help with your overall health, including muscle growth is a simple way to keep your body functioning as it should.
19 Best Supplements for Muscle Growth
Now that we shared some information about protein and advice for muscle growth, here are our top choices for supplements that help with muscle growth. Image courtesy Elm & Rye
Elm & Rye Testosterone Support
Elm & Rye is a natural testosterone booster that helps with strength, libido. This is one of the best ways to help build muscle during your daily fitness routine. It’s a lower-cost option than some others on our list, so we wanted to include it at the top of our list of the best supplements for muscle growth. Image courtesy Verma Farms
Verma Farm’s Energy Oil
Verma Farm’s Energy Oil is a natural, organic option for boosting testosterone production in your body. It features a balanced blend of plant-based ingredients intended to optimize your hormonal levels and promote muscle growth. Image courtesy Penguin CBD
Penguin CBD Capsules
Penguin CBD Capsules provide a natural solution for those who want to improve their weight lifting experience without negative side effects. These capsules are made from 99% natural ingredients and contain no THC, so you won’t have to worry about any psychoactive effects. Image courtesy Nutrex
Nutrex Research Outlift
Nutrex Research Outlift Recovery Drink is a high-quality protein supplement that helps build muscle and repair your body after an intense workout. If you’re looking for one of the best supplements for building muscle, you want to give this product some serious consideration. Image courtesy Citadel
Citadel Nutrition Tier 1
Citadel Nutrition Tier 1 Protein is a high-quality muscle building supplement that features whey protein concentrate. It comes in delicious flavors like banana cream pie, cinnamon swirl cake, and peanut butter cup fudge. Image courtesy Dymatize
Dymatize PreWO
Dymatize PreWO is an effective pre-workout supplement that will give you the energy you need to lift harder and heavier during your next workout. It promotes increased oxygen flow to your muscles, which means you’ll be able to build muscle faster than ever before. Image courtesy NutraBio
NutraBio PRE
NutraBio PRE is an advanced pre-workout supplement that gives you the energy to lift more weight during each workout. It also builds muscle, reduces soreness, and speeds up recovery time. Image courtesy GNC
GNC Pro Performance 100 Whey Protein
GNC Pro Performance 100 Whey Protein is a great option for those who want to build muscle more quickly during their weight lifting routines. It’s made from high-quality whey protein concentrate and features no artificial flavors or sweeteners. Image courtesy The Genius Brand
The Genius Brand Genius Pre
The Genius Brand Genius Pre is a natural pre-workout supplement that promotes mental focus and helps you get in the zone for your next workout. It’s made from high-quality ingredients like natural caffeine, green tea extract, and more. Image courtesy Rari
Rari Nutrition Infinity
Rari Nutrition Infinity+ is a high-quality post-workout recovery supplement that promotes recovery and reduces soreness. It contains whey protein isolate, which means it’s also one of the best supplements for building muscle you can find. Image courtesy Optimum Nutrition
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Micellar Casein Protein Powder
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Micellar Casein Protein Powder is a popular choice among those who want to build muscle. It’s made from high-quality micellar casein and comes in delicious flavors like rich chocolate, creamy vanilla, and cakes and cookies. Image courtesy BodyTech
BodyTech 100 Pure Creatine Monohydrate
BodyTech 100 Pure Creatine Monohydrate is a great choice for those who want to get stronger and build more muscle. It’s made from creatine monohydrate, which has been shown to increase your strength levels over time. Image courtesy Optimum Nutrition
Optimum Nutrition Instantized BCAA Capsules
Optimum Nutrition Instantized BCAA Capsules are a high-quality supplement that serves as an effective post-workout aid. They’re made from a blend of branched chain amino acids and help reduce the soreness you feel after hitting the gym hard. Image courtesy Life Extension
Life Extension Carnosine Vegetarian Capsules
Life Extension Carnosine Vegetarian Capsules are a popular choice for those who want to build muscle. Made from beta-alanine, this supplement also promotes overall health. Image courtesy Cellucor
Cellucor NO3 Chrome Nitric Oxide Supplement
Cellucor NO3 Chrome Nitric Oxide Supplement is one of the most popular nitric oxide supplements for weight lifters. It features beta-alanine, creatine nitrate, and betaine, which means you’ll get more out of your workouts. Image courtesy Now Foods
Now Foods L-Glutamine Supplement
Now Foods L-Glutamine Supplement is an effective glutamine supplement that helps you recover faster from each workout. It has a powerful antioxidant effect and can help reduce fatigue while promoting overall wellness. Image courtesy Optimum Nutrition
Optimum Nutrition ZMA Zinc
Optimum Nutrition ZMA Zinc and Magnesium Tablets are a popular choice for those who want to get stronger and build muscle. It contains zinc, magnesium, and vitamin B6, all of which are essential when it comes to building muscle mass. Image courtesy Beyond Raw
Beyond Raw Chemistry Labs L-Carnitine
Beyond Raw Chemistry Labs L-Carnitine is a high-quality supplement that promotes muscle gain and improves your strength level over time. It’s made from pure l-carnitine tartrate, which means you can be sure it’s effective. Image courtesy Muscle Empire
Muscle Empire Beta-Ecdysterone Capsules
Muscle Empire Beta-Ecdysterone Capsules are one of the best muscle building supplements on the market. It’s made from beta ecdysterone, which has been shown to increase muscle mass and strength.
How to Choose a Muscle Building Supplement
Learning more about your supplement choices can help you determine which one will work best for you. For example, if you exercise regularly and follow a solid nutrition plan, then finding a supplement like a testosterone booster may be right for you.
Muscle Building Supplements to Avoid
Certain supplements can inhibit muscle growth and lead to muscle loss over time. For instance, many pre-workout supplements contain caffeine or other substances that promote weight loss, which means they may not work well for you if you’re trying to bulk up. If you want to build muscle more quickly and efficiently, it’s important to purchase the best supplements. The 19 supplements we’ve mentioned above are some of the best ones on the market and can be found online or at most local supplement shops.
