Ultimate Guide to Casein

Casein protein is a derivative of milk protein and is mainly therefore present in milk that is derived from animals. The main reason why casein protein is so highly valued and this casein guide even exists is that casein as a protein. The primary animals used to derive such protein are cattle. Yes, this is the protein that your mother and father told you to have whilst you were young!

Casein protein’s speciality is the low pH value thus it is not soluble in an acidic environment. This is what causes a coagulation in the stomach and thus purposely digests this protein in 6-8 hours. This causes a constant influx of amino acids into your body, thus actually preventing catabolism. Granted this is not a healthy post workout option like whey protein but it is most definitely a killer option for nighttime.

Research wise, it’s been proven that casein, derived from milk and furthermore all milk proteins are superior to vegetarian proteins like soy. Look up the biological value. These are casein protein facts. These milk proteins are capable of a higher rate of muscle synthesis, with the understanding that the person is undergoing resistance training. So in the same way as whey, casein can provide the muscle enough nourishment for hypertrophy. This however doesn’t mean that that’s it’s forte. Casein’s true strength lies in the fact that it provides a sustained release of amino acids to help the body recover from strenuous workouts. This then, is immensely beneficial for individuals who are wanting to prevent catabolism in their body during night and/or even to guys and girls with regular desk jobs which go several hours without any meals.

Pro-Tip: Don’t limit Casein to bedtime. The best postworkout shakes are a mix of Whey+Casein

Other benefits include casein acting as an appetite suppressant, being a rich source of calcium for the bones, thus preventing any workout injuries and lastly being a fantastic source of vegetarian protein as people who don’t eat animal products can get their protein intake from casein. Casein protein is made by using various food technology methods like ionization, using different kinds of filters and adding natural/artificial colors and flavors.

Now since Casein is derived from milk, anyone allergic to dairy products will unfortunately have a reaction to casein protein as well. This however does not mean that people who are lactose intolerant can’t have casein as well. Lactose is the sugar that is present in milk, but I would still advise you to take a whey protein isolate with zero carbs, just to be on the safe side.

Also, now that we are discussing the types of protein, it’s also important to know the two different kinds of casein, namely, casein hydrolysate and micellar casein. The difference simply put Casein hydrolysate is enzymatically strengthened to improve the rate of absorption of the protein to the muscle tissues. Micellar casein have micelles that are used to transport the protein in it’s coagulated nature. This form is the most preferred iteration of casein protein as it gives the most bang-for-your-buck when it comes to calcium. Thus any and every casein guide for bodybuilders prefers micellar casein over other forms.

Because of it’s nature, most people restrict casein consumption before bed as it’s primarily a night time protein. There are however numerous applications of this kind of protein as a suitable meal replacement; satiating hunger pangs for hours to come. Unknowing to all, it is also an extremely versatile protein source and something you can make some delicious muscle building smoothies with.

ProTip: Add casein to curd to get a double punch of protein

In our quest to bring you some brilliant casein supplement reviews we must first understand the different types of protein and their particular uses. Whey Protein is a fast acting, post-workout protein that helps in recovery and quick absorption to the muscles. As opposed to casein, it’s more popular and faster acting to the bloodstream. Egg Albumin, Soy, Hemp and even insect protein are all other sources that are slower than whey, but faster than Casein. The best then, is to also go for a protein blend. This is especially good for folks who want an all-in-one supplement.

Casein protein the, is not only versatile but an effective staple for the bodybuilding enthusiast. It will serve as a friend in your guide to natural bodybuilding. Whilst this type of protein is consumed by mostly hardcore bodybuilders, it’s important to understand the versatility offered by Casein and the recovery properties that sometimes even eclipse whey. This hopefully now makes it an ultimate guide to casein. Comment below to get all your queries answered!