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Meal Plan For Gaining Weight

Looking to gain weight in a healthy way? Discover our 7-day meal plan for weight gain, designed to help you increase your calorie intake with nutritious foods. We'll also show you how to efficiently turn these meal plans into a shopping list. Time to embark on your journey to a healthier you!

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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

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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

Choose nutrient-dense, high-calorie foods like nut butters and avocados for healthy weight gain.

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 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.

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🎓 Recommended nutrient breakdown

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fiber

Other

Food alternatives

Gaining weight healthily requires consuming calorie-dense, nutritious foods. Here are some beneficial alternatives:

  • Replace pancake mix with whole grain pancake mix for added fiber and nutrients.
  • Instead of bread, try bagels for a more calorie-dense option.
  • Switch milk with whole milk for a higher calorie, nutrient-rich beverage.
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt for a higher protein content.
  • Substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes for a more nutrient-dense, high-calorie side.

How to budget on this meal plan

To budget the weight gain meal plan, consider buying staple items like rice, beans, pasta, and oatmeal in bulk. Choose generic brands for products like pancake and waffle mix, as well as dairy items like milk and cheese. Plan to use versatile ingredients like eggs, chicken, and beef in multiple meals. Buying frozen vegetables and berries can be more cost-effective than fresh, without sacrificing nutrition. Preparing homemade sauces and dressings instead of buying pre-made can also save money. Lastly, look for sales and discounts on meat and seafood to include high-quality proteins at a lower cost.

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Extra tips

Any healthy snack ideas?

High-calorie, nutritious snacks for weight gain:

  • Peanut butter sandwich on whole grain bread
  • Trail mix with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit
  • Granola bars with nuts and honey
  • Full-fat Greek yogurt with granola
  • Avocado toast with olive oil and egg
  • Protein shake with milk and banana
  • Cheese and whole grain crackers
What should I drink on this meal plan?

For weight gain, smoothies with full-fat milk, bananas, and nut butters offer a calorie-rich option. Whole milk provides calcium and extra calories. Fresh fruit juices supply vitamins and natural sugars. Sports drinks can be used occasionally for extra calories and energy. Herbal teas can be included for hydration and health benefits.

How to get even more nutrients?

For gaining weight healthily, prioritize nutrient- and calorie-dense foods without resorting to junk food. Smoothies enriched with nut butters, seeds, and protein powders can boost calorie intake while providing healthy fats and proteins. Whole grains and starchy vegetables offer a healthy source of carbohydrates that also contribute essential nutrients. Include more frequent meals and snacks to increase overall calorie intake while focusing on balanced nutrition to ensure health remains a priority.

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: 2600  Fat: 110g  Carbs: 250g  Protein: 90g

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: 2700  Fat: 105g  Carbs: 265g  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: 2800  Fat: 120g  Carbs: 255g  Protein: 105g

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: 2700  Fat: 110g  Carbs: 260g  Protein: 95g

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: 2800  Fat: 115g  Carbs: 265g  Protein: 100g

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: 2750  Fat: 115g  Carbs: 250g  Protein: 105g

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: 2650  Fat: 110g  Carbs: 240g  Protein: 100g

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.