7-day Meal Plan For Gaining Weight
Want to gain weight healthily? Get our 7-day meal plan for weight gain, teaching you how to consume more calories by using healthy foods. You will see below how to efficiently change these meal plans into a shopping list. Begin your journey to a healthier you!
Meal plan grocery list
- Pancake mix
- Maple syrup
- Eggs
- Bread
- Cheese
- Avocado
- Tomato soup
- Pasta
- Chicken
- Olive oil dressing
- Waffle mix
- Sausage
- Greek yogurt
- Mushrooms
- Spinach
- Bagels
- Cream cheese
- Smoked salmon
- Banana
- Berries
- Milk
- Beef
- Ribeye steak
- Asparagus
- Oatmeal
- Whole milk
- Peanut butter
- Tortillas
- Rice
- Beans
- Sour cream
- Creamy dill sauce
- Potatoes
- Broccoli
- Bacon
- Alfredo sauce
- Tuna
- Sweet potatoes
- Parmesan
- Spaghetti
- Greens
Article reviewed
- Written by our editorial team.
- Published on Dec. 19, 2023.
- Updated on Oct. 1, 2024.
Meal plan overview
Looking to gain weight healthily? Our 7-day meal plan for weight gain is focused on increasing calorie intake with nutritious foods.
It's designed to help you reach your weight goals in a healthy, balanced way. Enjoy meals that are both calorie-dense and nutrient-rich.
Foods to eat
- High-Calorie Proteins: Lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, and plant-based protein sources like beans and lentils.
- Healthy Fats: Avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish for extra calories and essential fatty acids.
- Dairy or Dairy Alternatives: Whole milk, full-fat yogurt, cheese, and other high-calorie dairy products.
- Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grains, brown rice, quinoa, sweet potatoes, and oats for sustained energy.
- Fruits: Bananas, mangoes, avocados, and dried fruits for added calories and nutrients.
- Nut Butters: Peanut butter, almond butter, and other nut butters for a calorie-dense snack.
- Protein Shakes: Supplement with protein shakes or smoothies with added fruits, nut butters, and yogurt.
- Strength Training: Incorporate weightlifting exercises to build muscle mass.
- Frequent Meals: Eat multiple smaller meals throughout the day to increase overall calorie intake.
✅ Tip
Incorporate healthy fats like avocado and nuts into your meals for calorie-dense, nutrient-rich options.
Foods not to eat
- Low-Calorie Snacks: Minimize intake of low-calorie snacks that may fill you up without providing many nutrients.
- Excessive Fiber: While fiber is important, avoid excessive fiber intake, which can make you feel fuller.
- Empty Calorie Foods: Reduce consumption of foods with empty calories, such as sugary drinks and candies.
- Highly Processed Foods: Limit processed foods, which may lack essential nutrients and contribute to unhealthy weight gain.
- Excessive Cardio: While cardiovascular exercise is essential for health, excessive cardio can burn additional calories.
- Low-Fat Products: Opt for full-fat versions of dairy products and avoid excessive reliance on low-fat alternatives.
- Unplanned Snacking: Plan meals and snacks to ensure consistent calorie intake throughout the day.
- Empty Calorie Beverages: Choose nutrient-dense beverages over those high in empty calories.
- Consult a Professional: If in doubt, seek guidance from a nutritionist or healthcare professional to create a personalized plan.
Main benefits
The 7-Day Meal Plan For Gaining Weight provides a structured approach to increase calorie intake and promote healthy weight gain. This meal plan emphasizes nutrient-dense foods, including lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats, to support muscle development. Regular and balanced meals, along with strategic snacks, contribute to a gradual and sustainable weight gain. With a focus on overall nutritional intake, this meal plan supports individuals looking to achieve their weight gain goals in a healthy and controlled manner.
Fat
Carbs
Protein
Fiber
Other
Food alternatives
To gain weight healthily, focus on calorie-dense, nutrient-rich foods. Here are some alternatives:
- Switch pancake mix with whole grain pancake mix for added fiber and nutrients.
- Replace bread with sourdough bread to benefit from its higher digestibility and nutrient profile.
- Instead of bagels, try English muffins, which can provide a different texture and flavor.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt for its higher protein content.
- Substitute tuna with mackerel, which is higher in calories and healthy fats.
How to budget on this meal plan
To budget this weight gain meal plan, prioritize buying in bulk where possible, especially for staples like rice, beans, pasta, and oatmeal. Opt for generic brands for items like pancake and waffle mix, and consider making your own sauces and dressings to save costs. Buy seasonal fruits and vegetables, and choose frozen berries when fresh ones are expensive. For protein sources, look for sales on chicken, beef, and salmon, and consider less expensive alternatives like canned tuna and eggs. Plan meals to use ingredients in multiple dishes, reducing waste and maximizing value.
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Extra tips
Any healthy snack ideas?
For healthy weight gain, focus on nutrient and calorie-dense snacks:
- Nut butter on whole grain toast
- Homemade granola with dried fruits and nuts
- Avocado and cheese sandwich
- Protein smoothies
- Yogurt with granola and honey
- Trail mix
- Fruit and nut bars
What should I drink on this meal plan?
Those looking to gain weight can opt for beverages that provide extra calories and nutrients. Smoothies made with full-fat milk, yogurt, and fruits are an excellent choice. Protein shakes can also aid in muscle gain. Fresh fruit juices provide calories and nutrients, while whole milk contributes to a higher caloric intake.
How to get even more nutrients?
When it comes to gaining weight, it’s all about healthy, nutrient-rich foods. Focus on calorie-dense but nutritious options like nuts, seeds, and avocados. Lean proteins help build muscle, so include plenty of fish, chicken, or plant-based proteins. Whole grains add healthy carbs and fiber. Don’t shy away from healthy fats and complex carbs, but remember to keep it balanced.
Meal plan suggestions
7-Day Meal Plan for Weight Gain
Day 1
- Breakfast: Whole grain pancakes with maple syrup and a side of scrambled eggs
- Lunch: Grilled cheese sandwich with avocado and tomato soup
- Dinner: Creamy pasta with chicken, mushrooms, and spinach
Calories: 2000 Fat: 85g Carbs: 185g Protein: 80g
Day 2
- Breakfast: Bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon, and a fruit smoothie
- Lunch: Beef burrito with rice, beans, cheese, and sour cream
- Dinner: Baked salmon with creamy dill sauce, mashed potatoes, and steamed broccoli
Calories: 2100 Fat: 90g Carbs: 215g Protein: 95g
Day 3
- Breakfast: French toast with butter and syrup, and a side of bacon
- Lunch: Chicken alfredo pasta with garlic bread
- Dinner: Ribeye steak with baked potato and sour cream, and grilled asparagus
Calories: 2200 Fat: 100g Carbs: 205g Protein: 100g
Day 4
- Breakfast: Oatmeal with whole milk, banana, and peanut butter
- Lunch: Tuna melt sandwich with cheese and a side of sweet potato fries
- Dinner: Chicken parmesan with spaghetti and a side salad with olive oil dressing
Calories: 2000 Fat: 85g Carbs: 205g Protein: 90g
Day 5
- Breakfast: Belgian waffles with strawberries, whipped cream, and a side of sausage
- Lunch: BBQ pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw and baked beans
- Dinner: Beef stroganoff with egg noodles and a side of glazed carrots
Calories: 2100 Fat: 90g Carbs: 210g Protein: 95g
Day 6
- Breakfast: Eggs Benedict with hollandaise sauce and a side of hash browns
- Lunch: Meatball sub with provolone cheese and a side of Caesar salad
- Dinner: Roast chicken with stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, and green beans
Calories: 2150 Fat: 95g Carbs: 195g Protein: 100g
Day 7
- Breakfast: Blueberry muffins with butter and a Greek yogurt parfait
- Lunch: Philly cheesesteak sandwich with a side of onion rings
- Dinner: Lamb chops with mint sauce, roasted potatoes, and sautéed spinach
Calories: 2050 Fat: 90g Carbs: 185g Protein: 95g
These values are approximate and can vary slightly based on specific portion sizes and preparation methods.
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⚠️ Keep in mind
As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.