We all know how crucial a balanced diet is for optimal health. Without proper nutrition, our bodies can’t function effectively, limiting our ability to enjoy the activities we love and maintain a fulfilling lifestyle.
However, some people struggle to obtain adequate nutrients through their regular diet. Those with exceptionally fast metabolisms often need significantly more macronutrients than average—a challenging requirement to meet consistently through food alone.
Fortunately, weight gainer shakes offer a solution to boost your body’s nutritional intake without adding extra meals to your daily routine. While numerous brands and formulas exist on the market, we’re focusing on one particular standout option.
What Is The Protein Works Total Mass Matrix?
Total Mass Matrix is a weight gainer shake from The Protein Works (TPW), a company that has pioneered sports supplement innovation for nearly a decade since launching their website in December 2012.
The Protein Works houses hundreds of products, including Creatine Monohydrate, Whey Protein, weight gainer shakes, protein powders, protein foods, baking ingredients, pre-workout and post-workout supplements, amino acid powders, and much more. They’re a comprehensive resource for anyone focused on bulking up and adding healthy weight.
TPW prioritizes premium ingredients, genuine innovation, and exceptional taste. While they acknowledge they’re not the cheapest option available, they don’t aim to be—instead focusing on helping customers gain weight through healthy, quality nutrition.
Before examining the Total Mass Matrix ingredients and supplement facts, let’s explore essential background information about weight gainer shakes: their health benefits, responsible usage, key features to consider, and daily protein requirements.
Are weight gainer shakes healthy?
Weight gainer shakes can be healthy and effective for achieving your desired weight when used properly and responsibly. However, not all weight gainer shakes are created equal—brand quality and formula composition are crucial factors.
Generally, weight gainer shakes are beneficial when used as supplements to complement your regular, well-balanced diet. While nothing replaces the importance of whole foods, a quality weight gainer shake can effectively add calories and protein to your existing nutrition plan.
Crucially, never use weight gainer shakes as meal replacements. This approach undermines their effectiveness since our bodies require the diverse nutrients that only whole foods provide.
What are the five pillars of weight gainers?
When evaluating weight gainer shakes, consider these five essential nutritional factors: calories, protein, carbs, dietary fiber, and fats. While every weight gainer contains these components, the proportions vary significantly. Let’s examine each element:
- Calories – energy units determined by protein, carbohydrate, and fat content. Protein and carbs provide 4 calories per gram, while fat delivers 9 calories per gram.
- Protein – life’s building block; protein supports energy production, muscle building, bone strengthening, immune system enhancement, and recovery.
- Carbohydrates – the body’s primary energy source, broken down into glucose to produce ATP (the body’s energy messenger).
- Dietary Fiber – a unique carbohydrate type that the body doesn’t digest. Instead, it enhances digestive health and supports weight management.
- Fat – despite common misconceptions, healthy fats are essential dietary components. The body stores them for protection, warmth, and energy.
Ensuring adequate intake of these five nutrients is vital for daily health and function. If you’re struggling to meet these requirements—whether due to a fast metabolism or active lifestyle—weight gainer shakes can efficiently boost your nutritional numbers.
How much protein do you need daily?
Protein is one of the most misunderstood macronutrients, especially among fitness enthusiasts seeking muscle growth. Many people assume that more protein automatically equals more muscle development.
The recommended daily protein intake is 0.36 grams per pound of body weight. For a 150-pound person, this equals 54 grams of protein. For someone weighing 250 pounds, that’s 90 grams of protein—significantly less than most people expect.
Lifestyle factors, metabolism, age, gender, and other variables influence these requirements. Active individuals should target approximately 0.7 grams of protein per pound of body weight—roughly double the standard recommendation.
What’s the best way to take a mass gainer?
Mass gainer timing depends largely on personal preference, but optimal consumption occurs between meals or 15-20 minutes post-workout to support recovery processes.
Since these supplements come in powder form, you’ll need to mix them with liquid. Most people blend the powder with water or milk in a blender, depending on flavor preferences. Milk creates a thicker, smoothie-like consistency, while water produces a thinner texture—choose based on your preference.
Pay attention to serving sizes measured in grams. More powder requires more liquid for proper mixing. Insufficient liquid results in a chalky, undissolved shake, while adequate liquid means consuming a larger volume.
The Protein Works Total Mass Matrix Ingredients
Now that we understand weight gainer fundamentals and their mass-building benefits, let’s examine what makes the Total Mass Matrix formula exceptional. Here are the key nutrition facts and macronutrient breakdown:
- Serving – 120g
- Calories – 475
- Fat – 11g
- Carbs – 64g
- Sugars – 15g
- Dietary Fiber – 6.4g
- Protein – 30g
This represents an excellent macronutrient balance for weight gainer shakes. The high protein content paired with a moderate calorie count means over half the calories derive from protein, making this an ideal post-workout recovery supplement.
Let’s explore the specific ingredients and nutrient types that deliver these macros, including the carbohydrate blend, protein blend, MCTs, and golden flaxseed.
Carbohydrate Blend
As mentioned earlier, carbohydrates serve as the body’s primary energy source. Your body prioritizes carbohydrates first when producing cellular energy, making adequate daily intake essential. The 64 grams per serving provides sufficient fuel.
Three main carbohydrate sources power this shake: pure fine oats, dextrose, and maltodextrin. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
- Pure Fine Oats – 100% natural Scottish oats delivering excellent low-GI carbohydrates for sustained energy release.
- Dextrose – a simple sugar chemically similar to glucose, derived from corn and rapidly broken down for quick energy.
- Maltodextrin – a simple sugar high on the glycemic index, sourced from corn, rice, potato starch, and wheat.
These three carbohydrate sources deliver sustained energy throughout the day, though caution is advised with high doses. While 64 grams is safe, avoid multiple daily servings if you have high blood sugar, diabetes, or insulin resistance.
Protein Blend
The Total Mass Matrix features a 2:1 carb-to-protein ratio that ensures optimal nutrient utilization. Like the carbohydrates, three primary protein sources comprise the formula: calcium caseinate, milk protein concentrate, and whey protein concentrate.
Here’s each protein source explained:
- Calcium Caseinate – derived from milk casein, providing slow protein release for sustained amino acid delivery.
- Milk Protein Concentrate – essentially powdered milk with lactose removed. Containing both whey and casein, it offers moderate protein release.
- Whey Protein Concentrate – derived from milk whey, delivering fast protein release for rapid amino acid availability.
Similar to the carbohydrate sources, both fast and slow-release proteins create a balanced profile that meets your body’s varying needs throughout the day, preventing rapid nutrient depletion immediately after consumption.
Golden Flaxseed
Golden flaxseed (linseed) comes from the flax plant and has provided health benefits since 3,000 BC in ancient Babylon. King Charlemagne even mandated its consumption among his subjects during the 8th century.
It’s renowned for omega-3 essential fatty acids (healthy fats), lignans (antioxidant properties), fiber (both soluble and insoluble), and protein content. These components can improve cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, control blood sugar, and suppress hunger.
Medium Chain Triglycerides
Fatty acids are classified as long-chain, medium-chain, or short-chain. Shorter chains digest more easily in the human body, making medium-chain triglycerides superior to most fat sources.
MCTs are primarily extracted from coconut oil, comprising over 50% of coconut’s fat content. The most common medium-chain triglycerides are caprylic acid and capric acid, offering numerous health benefits when consumed.
MCT benefits include promoting weight loss, providing excellent energy sources, reducing lactate buildup, utilizing fat for energy, fighting yeast and bacterial growth, and managing blood sugar levels.
Total Mass Matrix Dosage, Packaging, and Pricing
Total Mass Matrix comes in a standard weight gainer powder bag featuring a sleek black design with eye-catching orange accents. The white and orange lettering creates attractive contrast while maintaining a minimal, claim-free aesthetic.
It’s available in 2kg, 5kg, or 10kg bags, depending on your stocking preferences. Each 120-gram serving means approximately 16 servings per 2kg bag, requiring two bags for a full month of daily use.
Fortunately, multiple flavor options are available: Banana Smooth, Chocolate Silk, Birthday Cake, Chocolate Mint Brownie, Cookies and Cream, Strawberries and Cream, and Vanilla Creme. They use natural flavoring for excellent taste.
Each 2kg bag costs $40, which is relatively expensive compared to competitors. However, quick action can save $15, bringing the total to $24—much more affordable. Two bags for monthly supply costs approximately $50.
Currently, the 5kg and 10kg options are out of stock.
Total Mass Matrix Pros vs. Cons
No weight gainer shake is perfect, regardless of how thoroughly you search. Even worse, they’re not created equal, each featuring unique advantages and disadvantages that complicate purchasing decisions.
Fortunately, we’ve compiled everything we appreciate and dislike about Total Mass Matrix in a clear pros versus cons list. This overview will help you understand what to expect from this shake and decide whether this formula suits your needs.
Let’s dive in!
Pros
- Multiple flavor options available
- 2:1 carb-to-protein ratio
- Features slow, moderate, and fast-release protein sources
- Contains both slow and fast carbohydrate sources
- MCT oil provides healthy fats used for energy
- Golden Flaxseed delivers omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants
- Moderate calorie content sufficient to boost daily intake
- 30 grams of protein exceeds single-shake requirements
- Available in over 30 countries worldwide
- Maintains 97% rating across 160+ website reviews
Cons
- Some reports indicate mixing difficulties
- Requires substantial water or milk for proper mixing
- Potentially expensive at approximately $50 monthly
- Taste may require adjustment period
- Exercise caution if diabetic due to carbohydrate sources
- Lower calorie count compared to competing brands
- Single serving recommended to prevent protein excess
- Lacks vitamins and minerals
- No additional workout-supporting ingredients
The Protein Works Total Mass Matrix Claims vs. Reality
Total Mass Matrix ranks among today’s most effective and popular weight gainer shakes. This formula offers considerable appeal, including the 2:1 carb-to-protein ratio and multiple carbohydrate and protein sources, providing optimal nutritional balance.
The calorie count suits some users perfectly while falling short for others. If you’re seeking something under 500 calories with high protein content, this formula excels. However, this means relatively low carb and fat content. Those requiring higher-calorie options should look elsewhere.
Nevertheless, the medium-chain triglycerides and golden flaxseed additions provide quality healthy fats and fiber. While fat content remains modest, they deliver valuable nutritional benefits. Overall, it maintains an excellent macronutrient balance per serving.
The diverse flavor options also merit consideration. While you’ll need to discover your personal favorite, many users praise the Chocolate Silk variant. You might need considerable liquid for proper mixing, but this is acceptable if you don’t mind consuming larger-than-normal drinks.
Total Mass Matrix Competitors & Alternatives
Over the past decade, weight gainer shakes have become increasingly popular in the supplement community. People from all backgrounds turn to these macro-packed shakes to gain weight, boost calorie intake, and enhance daily protein consumption.
However, Total Mass Matrix by The Protein Works is hardly your only market option. Numerous alternatives exist, and you’ll need to find the one with macronutrient profiles that best fit your lifestyle. If Total Mass Matrix doesn’t meet your needs, consider these alternatives.
Mass Gainer by Transparent Labs
Transparent Labs produces many renowned supplements, from Transparent Labs Bulk to PhysiqueSeries Fat Burner. Their Mass Gainer stands as another popular weight-gain option.If Total Mass Matrix lacked sufficient calories, carbs, or protein, Mass Gainer by Transparent Labs presents an excellent alternative. While slightly more expensive, it delivers superior value and helps build lean muscle mass through clean, effective nutrition.
Each 200-gram serving exceeds Total Mass Matrix portions, containing 790 calories, 14 grams fat, 145mg cholesterol, 610mg sodium, 114 grams carbs, 6 grams fiber, and 53 grams protein. Additional benefits include more comprehensive nutrition.
It also features MCTs, coconut milk powder, and Creatine Monohydrate for enhanced workout performance. Carbohydrate sources include tapioca, oats, and sweet potatoes, while whey protein concentrate provides the protein base. Each 15-serving tub costs $69, with bundle discounts available.
Mass XXX by GNC AMP
Mass XXX by GNC AMP offers similar macronutrient counts to Transparent Labs. The key difference lies in additional nutrients designed to enhance workout performance and recovery. It’s a comprehensive mass gainer.
Each serving delivers 750 calories, 6 grams fat, 100mg cholesterol, 123 grams carbs, 4 grams fiber, and 50 grams protein. It also provides calcium, iron, potassium, and sodium. Available exclusively in chocolate flavor, each serving contains approximately 205g powder.
Beyond macronutrients, it features several proprietary blends. The Tri-MG Infusion blend includes Calcium HMB and Betaine Anhydrous. The Creatine Matrix Blend contains three creatine types plus additional amino acids. Finally, it provides three key micronized amino acids.
Serious Mass by Optimum Nutrition
Serious Mass by Optimum Nutrition ranks among today’s most recognizable weight gainers. It offers substantial benefits and features this list’s highest calorie count, making it perfect for active individuals with exceptionally fast metabolisms.
Each massive 336-gram serving contains 1,250 calories, 4.5 grams fat, 110mg cholesterol, 252 grams carbohydrates, 4 grams fiber, and 50 grams protein. It also provides 13 different vitamins and 13 minerals for comprehensive nutrition.
Additional benefits include creatine monohydrate, inositol, L-glutamine, and PABA per serving. Each 12-pound tub contains 16 servings for $60, or $120 monthly. Available flavors include Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Strawberry, and Vanilla.
Final Verdict: The Protein Works Total Mass Matrix
If you’re seeking a weight gainer shake to boost calorie intake and add healthy mass, The Protein Works Total Mass Matrix deserves serious consideration. While it lacks functional ingredients, vitamins, or minerals for workout enhancement, it excels in macronutrient delivery.
The MCTs and Golden Flaxseed represent valuable formula additions and significant reasons we’d recommend this product. While higher calories might improve it slightly, it’s ideal for those who don’t require substantial caloric additions to their regular diet.
If Total Mass Matrix doesn’t meet your needs, consider the alternatives we’ve discussed: Mass Gainer by Transparent Labs, Mass XXX by GNC AMP, or Serious Mass by Optimum Nutrition. Any of these options can deliver excellent results when used responsibly.
