Casein protein is the largest protein found in milk; in fact cow's milk has 80% of this protein while the other 20% is the whey.
This type of protein is extracted by the use of ultra filtration without using any chemicals that is why it has an increased content of bioactive milk peptides which is responsible in enhancing muscle growth and supporting the function of the immune system.
It is also popularly known as the slowest digesting protein and a very good amino acid profile.
Casein protein is considered as a slow digesting protein since it creates a gel in the gut which in turn results in the firm release of amino acids into the bloodstream.
According to some research, after consuming casein, you will reach a peak of protein synthesis and blood amino acids for about three to four hours.
However, the total release of amino acids in the bloodstream can last up to 7 hours after the intake of casein.
On the other hand, whey reaches a peak of protein synthesis and amino acids for forty minutes and the total release can last up to one hour.
Casein protein will slowly enter into the blood stream and it can have a very little impact on protein synthesis.
However, it can have a strong impact in suppressing protein breakdown.
Basically, it is considered as an excellent muscle sparing protein.
Take note that muscle growth needs a balance of protein breakdown and protein synthesis.
You can accomplish this if you will have a supplement of both casein and whey.
Casein is the key to the slow absorption of protein breakdown while whey is quick in absorbing protein synthesis.
In order to take full advantage of whey and casein, you have to use them at the right time.
For instance, Casein protein should be taken before you go to sleep.
This is because your body needs to be maintained for six to eight hours without food during your sleep.
Of course, you don't want your hard-earned muscle to be damaged when you go to sleep.
Therefore, it would be wise to use this protein because it is slow in absorption.
On the other hand, if you choose whey protein before going to bed then it would not do any good since it can quickly absorbed within an hour.
Whey protein is best after workouts and during the first thing in the morning.
If you are replacing your meal with a protein shake or you want to go without food for more than three hours then it would be best to have a balance of whey and casein which is 50/50.
This can provide you a quick protein as well as a continued release of protein through your next meal.
However, if you choose to eat every two to three hours then you can take whey protein in between meals.
Casein is composed of three forms these are; milk protein isolate, calcium caseinate and micellar casein.
Among the three, calcium caseinate is known to have the smallest quality and is regularly used as food ingredient.