R1 Gain is a mass-gainer protein powder made by Rule 1 Proteins.

It is a formula designed for lean mass gain, and has a more complex carbohydrate blend than traditional mass gainers.

Rule 1 Proteins is an American supplement brand based in Aurora, Illinois. They specialise in protein powders, but also produce other supplements, including creatine and amino acids.

Ingredients Label

Active Ingredients

Maltodextrin

Although R1 Protein makes a big deal out of their formula not using “cheap” ingredients like other mass gainer brands, it still contains a substantial amount of maltodextrin.

Maltodextrin is a low-cost carbohydrate, commonly used in mass gainers. It is extremely quick-releasing (high GI).

This can spike insulin significantly, and is not ideal for consumption in large amounts – especially if you are a diabetic.

Organic Rice Bran and Peas

These are both high-quality, low-GI carbohydrate sources, which give R1 Gain a slight edge in the mass gainer field.

Rice bran in particular is a high-fibre carbohydrate source, which is essential for good health and assisting with the digestion of protein.

However, we’re unsure what the ratio of these carbohydrates are, and if these higher-quality sources are included in decent amounts.

Whey Protein

R1 Gain contains three types of whey protein, which vary slightly in purity. The primary form used here is whey protein isolate, which is a very pure form.

Whey protein in general has been shown by research to greatly increase the rates of growth and repair of muscle (1).

All of the forms of whey used in the formula are absorbed relatively quickly compared to other protein sources, making it a perfect blend to use post-workout.

BCAAs

Branched-chain amino acids or BCAAs are free-form amino acids that prevent muscle breakdown and improve muscle growth.

They may also reduce stress-hormone production, and improve your recovery time (2).

Glutamine

Glutamine is an amino acid which is often used for improving muscle recovery and growth.

It may work on its own, but research shows it isn’t needed when protein intake is high (3).

Who Takes It?

Athletes wanting a mass-gainer protein with a healthier carbohydrate content may enjoy R1 Gain.

How to Take

Mix 2 scoops (142g) with 500mL cold water or milk, and consume as desired.

Side Effects

Excess protein consumption can worsen an existing liver or kidney condition.

Consuming large quantities of maltodextrin can significantly spike insulin. Diabetics should exercise caution when taking R1 Gain, or avoid it altogether.

Pros

Mixture of high and low-GI carbohydrates are used, rather than pure maltodextrin
50g of protein per serving
Extra BCAAs and glutamine are included

Cons

The ratio of maltodextrin to other carbohydrate sources is unknown, meaning there is a chance that the low-GI carb content is not adequate
Glutamine may have little to no extra effect when paired with protein

Conclusion

At first glance, R1 Gain appears to be a superior mass-gainer to other alternatives, due to its improved carbohydrate profile and extra ingredients.

However, after digging deeper, it appears that cheap maltodextrin is still the main carbohydrate source. We also aren’t told how much rice-bran and pea carbohydrate is in each scoop.

We are impressed that they’ve taken a step in the right direction, but the verdict is still out on whether they’ve hit the mark or not.