The BSN product line offers a variety of formulas designed for different fitness goals. A common question is, "Does BSN True Mass have creatine?" The answer depends on the product. The original True Mass and the True Mass 1200 differ significantly from the True Mass All-In-One Gainer regarding creatine content.
The Original BSN True Mass Formula
The original BSN True Mass is a mass gainer focused on a calorie-dense blend of proteins and carbohydrates. Creatine is not included, according to the product labels. The formula prioritizes a protein matrix from multiple sources (including whey concentrate, whey isolate, and micellar casein) and a complex carbohydrate blend designed for sustained energy and muscle recovery. The focus is to provide a balanced macronutrient profile to support overall weight and muscle mass gain.
BSN True Mass 1200: High-Calorie Option
BSN offers True Mass 1200 for those needing high caloric intake. This version provides a significant calorie surplus, often exceeding 1200 calories per serving, along with a 4:1 carbohydrate-to-protein ratio. Like the original True Mass, True Mass 1200 does not contain added creatine. Its primary function is to help individuals consume a large number of calories and nutrients to fuel training and recovery.
BSN True Mass All-In-One Gainer: The Creatine-Enhanced Formula
The True Mass All-In-One Gainer is the BSN product that includes creatine. This formulation is enriched with 3g of creatine monohydrate per serving. This version provides a comprehensive post-workout solution, combining protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and performance-enhancing compounds like creatine and glutamine in one shake. This is the appropriate choice from BSN's product line for athletes who want the benefits of both a mass gainer and creatine without buying separate supplements.
The Role of Creatine in Mass Gain
Creatine and mass gainers serve different but complementary purposes. Creatine is a naturally occurring compound that helps supply energy to your muscles during short-duration, high-intensity exercises like weightlifting.
Key functions of creatine:
- Enhances strength and power: Increases the availability of ATP, the primary energy currency for quick, explosive movements, enabling more intense workouts.
- Increases muscle volume: It draws water into muscle cells, leading to a fuller, more volumized appearance.
- Aids in recovery: Some evidence suggests creatine can help reduce muscle damage and inflammation following strenuous exercise.
A mass gainer primarily provides a convenient source of protein and carbohydrates. It helps achieve the caloric surplus necessary for muscle growth and weight gain. Combining the two in a product like True Mass All-In-One Gainer offers the caloric support for growth alongside the performance benefits of creatine, creating a synergistic effect for maximum results.
Choosing the Right BSN Product
Choosing the correct BSN product depends entirely on your training goals and current supplementation. If you already take a standalone creatine supplement or prefer to avoid it, the original True Mass or True Mass 1200 are suitable options for meeting high-calorie and protein needs. However, if you are looking for an all-in-one solution that bundles creatine monohydrate with a mass-gaining formula, the True Mass All-In-One Gainer is the best choice.
Comparison of BSN True Mass Products
| Feature | Standard True Mass | True Mass 1200 | True Mass All-In-One Gainer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Creatine Content | No | No | Yes (3g per serving) |
| Caloric Density | ~700 kcal per serving | >1200 kcal per serving | ~620 kcal per serving |
| Carb-to-Protein Ratio | ~2:1 | 4:1 | Varies by flavor, but includes complex carbs and protein |
| Target User | Individuals needing a caloric boost for moderate weight gain. | Hardgainers or those requiring extreme calorie intake. | Athletes seeking a comprehensive post-workout shake with added performance benefits. |
| Key Additional Ingredients | BCAA's and fiber. | BCAAs, EAAs, fiber, and MCTs. | Creatine, glutamine, vitamins, and minerals. |
Conclusion
In summary, whether a BSN True Mass product contains creatine depends on the specific version. The original True Mass and True Mass 1200 do not contain added creatine. The True Mass All-In-One Gainer product does include 3g of creatine monohydrate per serving to enhance performance and recovery. Check the product's supplement facts panel to ensure it aligns with your specific goals. For combining a mass gainer and creatine in a single product, the All-In-One Gainer is the best option. For more information on creatine, consider this guide from the Cleveland Clinic, available at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17674-creatine.
