What is casein?
Casein is a protein found in cow’s milk. It makes up roughly 80 percent of milk’s protein content, while whey accounts for the other 20 percent. Casein is also found as an additive in many foods and medicines, as well as in non edible items such as plastics, paints and adhesives, due to its ability to act as a binding agent.
What’s good about casein?
Many bodybuilding and weightlifting enthusiasts tout casein supplements as an excellent source of protein. It is slow to digest and releases amino acids over the course of several hours, preventing the breakdown of muscle tissue. For these reasons, casein is typically the preferred choice of protein for bodybuilders to consume at bedtime.
What’s bad about casein?
People who are allergic to milk are actually allergic to casein protein. Milk allergy is different from lactose intolerance, which is caused by a lack of lactase enzymes to break down milk sugar. For people with a milk allergy, consuming any product with casein can lead to a number of allergic reactions, including hives and gastrointestinal discomfort. Fortunately, there are many casein-free foods and products on the market, including cereals, snacks and even supplements. If you’re shopping for casein-free foods, be sure to check the label for milk or any milk-derived ingredients.