Supplement Reviews

Although whey protein is still the most popular and purchased supplement on the market, casein protein has received a lot of attention in the recent years. As a muscle builder, casein protein is an essential part of any resistance training workout. Studies show that the amino acids found in casein protein help to support muscle building and recovery, especially when taken before bed. (1-7) Let's take a look at two of the best brands in the business to see which one is worth the buy.

Optimum Nutrition Casein

Where can I buy it?

• Here's where you can buy Optimum Nutrition Casein.

Pros of Optimum Nutrition Casein

Optimum Nutrition keeps it simple with its casein protein. Right away you'll notice on the label that the first ingredient is Micellar Casein. Companies wanted to create an effective and affordable substitute to native casein, which is the best casein protein in the industry. The result was micellar casein protein. It's able to be ingested and once in the stomach, it is slowly digested, providing a steady stream of amino acids over the course of hours.

Optimum Nutrition delivers 24 grams of micellar casein and that is an excellent dosage per serving as most studies have subjects using serving size of 20 to 30 grams of protein. These amino acids may be able to help support your fitness goals in regards to muscle building and recovery time. (1-7)

Optimum Nutrition also provides you with Aminogen, which may allow protein to be broken down and utilized more efficiently.

Cons of Optimum Nutrition Casein

There isn't much that you can say against Optimum Nutrition's Casein. Yes, it does contain artificial sweeteners and there is a bit of soy lecithin but at the price point you're getting it, you can't go wrong.

Optimum Nutrition also contains polydextrose, which is a fiber substitute. Depending on your lifestyle and how you feel regarding this filler, Optimum Nutrition Casein may not be your first choice.

Dymatize Casein

Where can I buy it?

• Here's where you can buy Dymatize Casein.

Pros of Dymatize Casein

Dymatize Casein has nearly the same formula as Optimum Nutrition with the exception of the Aminogen, which may support protein digestibility. You're getting 25 grams of casein protein with each serving and as we mentioned above, this is the sweet spot for study-based dosages. Although Dymatize Casein doesn't have the trademarked Aminogen, it does contain three digestive enzymes to promote the proper digestion of the protein.

The one area where Dymatize really sets itself apart from Optimum Nutrition is in taste. User reviews show that all of the flavours in the Casein line-up are fantastic and fan favourites.

Cons of Dymatize Casein

 Like Optimum Nutrition, Dymatize has several artificial sweeteners and fillers. Again, this is more of a dietary and lifestyle restriction than it is a hit against the product.

Instead of polydextrose, Dymatize Casein contains maltodextrin, which is touted as a carbohydrate substitute. Again, this is going to be a preference thing on what you will allow yourself to consume.

Conclusion

With nearly identical labels, user reviews, and testimonials, Optimum Nutrition Casein and Dymatize Casein are understandably two of the best in the industry. We thoroughly recommend both brands but since neither is superior to the other one, the decision to buy may simply come down to price. If one is one sale, grab it then wait for the other brand to fall in price. Both brands will satisfy your protein needs and help you achieve success.

References

1. Tsutsumi R, Tsutsumi YM. Peptides and proteins in whey and their benefits for human health. Austin J Nutri Food Sci 2014;1(1): 1002

2. Blomstrand E, Eliasson J, Karlsson HK, Köhnke R. Branched-chain amino acids activate key enzymes in protein synthesis after physical exercise. J Nutr. 2006 Jan;136(1 Suppl):269S-73S.

3. Norton, Layne, Layman, Donald. Leucine Regulates Translation Initiation of Protein Synthesis in Skeletal Muscle after Exercise. J. Nutr. February 2006 vol. 136 no. 2 533S-537S.

4. Negro M, Giardina S, Marzani B, Marzatico F. Branched-chain amino acid supplementation does not enhance athletic performance but affects muscle recovery and the immune system. J Sports Med Phys Fitness. 2008 Sep;48(3):347-51.

5. Mourier A, Bigard AX, de Kerviler E, Roger B, Legrand H, Guezennec CY. Combined effects of caloric restriction and branched-chain amino acid supplementation on body composition and exercise performance in elite wrestlers. Int J Sports Med. 1997 Jan;18(1):47-55.

6. De Lorenzo A, Petroni ML, Masala S, Melchiorri G, Pietrantuono M, Perriello G, Andreoli A. Effect of acute and chronic branched-chain amino acids on energy metabolism and muscle performance. Diabetes Nutr Metab. 2003 Oct-Dec;16(5-6):291-7.

7. Res PT, Groen B, Pennings B, Beelen M, Wallis GA, Gijsen AP, Senden JM, VAN Loon LJ. Protein ingestion before sleep improves postexercise overnight recovery. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2012 Aug;44(8):1560-9. doi: 10.1249/MSS.0b013e31824cc363.

Amino acids are no longer a luxury supplement. If you look around the gym, most people will be drinking a brightly coloured powder that is more likely than not an amino acid-based supplement. The benefits of amino acids during your workout are numerous. When taken as directed, amino acids may be able to boost your recovery, trigger protein synthesis, and protect muscle from breakdown. Not every amino acid supplement is created equal. We reviewed two of the biggest amino acid supplement brands in the industry to determine which one was worth the buy.

Scivation Xtend

Where can I buy it?

• Here's where you can buy Scivation Xtend.

Pros of Scivation Xtend:

Scivation Xtend gives you 7 grams of essential amino acids at a 2:1:1 ratio. That means you're getting the following breakdown:

• L-Leucine 3,500mg
• L-Isoleucine 1,750mg
• L-Valine 1,750mg

They even throw in 2,500mg of L-Glutamine, which is half the recommended dose but still a nice addition to a BCAA supplement. L-Glutamine may help to support fitness goals through enhanced recovery.

The 2:1:1 ratio you have with Xtend is the ideal dose as demonstrated in multiple studies. Taken as directed, these amino acids may help to protect muscle mass, boost protein synthesis, and support recovery. (1-6)

Last but not least, Xtend throws in Citrulline Malate, which may help to boost your energy on a ceullar level, thereby promoting fat burning.

Cons of Scivation Xtend:

 There isn't much that could be considered a problem with Xtend. Sure, it has artificial flavours and colouring but so do 99% of the supplements out there. The only other potential issue is a lack of broad spectrum amino acids; however, keep in mind that Xtend specifically offers the essential amino acids. If you want a more broad spectrum amino acid supplement, you're better off taking a shot of protein.

BSN Amino X

Where can I buy it?

• Here's where you can buy BSN Amino X.

Pros of BSN Amino X:

BSN Amino X offers 10 grams of BCAAs per serving. That's 10 TOTAL grams of the following:

• L-Leucine
• L-Valine
• L-Isoleucine
• L-Alanine
• Micronized Taurine
• Micronized L-Citrulline

As we mentioned above, those essential amino acids are going to play a helping role in boosting your ability to build muscle and protect current levels of muscle mass. They will also help with recovery, ensuring you can get back into the gym faster. The addition of Vitamin D makes Amino X a very competitive and forward-thinking supplement, especially when it comes to giving the muscles what they need to recover and grow.

Cons of BSN Amino X:

Our biggest issue with Amino X is that it is a proprietary blend. Sure, you're getting 10 grams of amino acids but you don't know the exact amount. This is important information as most studies are based on a very specific 2:1:1 ratio of the essential amino acids L-Leucine, L-Valine, and L-Isoleucine.

With that said, seeing as how you're getting 10 grams worth of amino acids and the three most important ones are at the top of blend list, we would say it's safe to assume you're getting that ideal dosage.

Conclusion

It's nearly impossible to choose between these two amazing brands. With price aside, if we had to pick one, we would go with Amino X from BSN.

Sure, Amino X may use a proprietary blend but if you look at the amino acids listed, there is a really good chance that you're getting the ideal dosage. We also like the addition of the other aminos along with Vitamin D as this makes for a better recovery supplement.

Again, Xtend from Scivation isn't a bad supplement. In fact, it's a terrific supplement. If you can, buy both and see which one you see the better results with.

References

1. Tsutsumi R, Tsutsumi YM. Peptides and proteins in whey and their benefits for human health. Austin J Nutri Food Sci 2014;1(1): 1002

2. Blomstrand E, Eliasson J, Karlsson HK, Köhnke R. Branched-chain amino acids activate key enzymes in protein synthesis after physical exercise. J Nutr. 2006 Jan;136(1 Suppl):269S-73S.

3. Norton, Layne, Layman, Donald. Leucine Regulates Translation Initiation of Protein Synthesis in Skeletal Muscle after Exercise. J. Nutr. February 2006 vol. 136 no. 2 533S-537S.

4. Negro M, Giardina S, Marzani B, Marzatico F. Branched-chain amino acid supplementation does not enhance athletic performance but affects muscle recovery and the immune system. J Sports Med Phys Fitness. 2008 Sep;48(3):347-51.

5. Mourier A, Bigard AX, de Kerviler E, Roger B, Legrand H, Guezennec CY. Combined effects of caloric restriction and branched-chain amino acid supplementation on body composition and exercise performance in elite wrestlers. Int J Sports Med. 1997 Jan;18(1):47-55.

6. De Lorenzo A, Petroni ML, Masala S, Melchiorri G, Pietrantuono M, Perriello G, Andreoli A. Effect of acute and chronic branched-chain amino acids on energy metabolism and muscle performance. Diabetes Nutr Metab. 2003 Oct-Dec;16(5-6):291-7.

There is no doubt that the nutrients that you put into your body immediately following a workout are going to play a huge role in the results that you see in the mirror. Post-workout nutrition has been the center of attention for supplement companies, resulting in some of the biggest brands dishing out incredibly popular products. When recovery is your goal, you need a supplement designed specifically for repair. Let's review two of the biggest names in the industry, BSN Cellmass 2.0 vs MuscleTech Cell Tech, to see which one is worth the buy.

BSN Cellmass 2.0

Where can I buy it?BSN Cellmass 2.0

• Here's where you can buy BSN Cellmass 2.0.

Pros of BSN Cellmass 2.0

BSN offers an impressive line-up of pre-workout, intra-workout, protein, and many other categories of supplements but what about post-workout? BSN's response to the post-workout need is Cellmass 2.0. This amino-acid focused recovery drink is broken down into three major categories.

Recovery Composite

• Whey Protein Hydrolysate
• L-Glutamine
• Glutamine Peptides

Myogenic Matrix

• Creatine Monohydrate
• Creatine HCL
• Creatine Anhydrous

Insulino Interfusion

• Taurine
• Banaba Extract

Your body loves amino acids before, during, and especially following a workout. BSN provides you with a unique amino acid blend from whey protein and glutamine peptides. These amino acids may be able to help support recovery and lean muscle growth. Cellmass 2.0 also has three types of creatine. Creatine is an industry classic that may be able to support cellular energy levels, reduce muscle soreness, and boost performance. (1-7)

Cons of BSN Cellmass 2.0

Like many companies, BSN uses a proprietary blend. That means, you know what ingredients you're getting but you're not filled in on the dosage of each. This can be problematic because some ingredients only work at a specific dosage and if you're getting less than that dosage, you may not notice any benefit.

The other issue we have with Cellmass 2.0 is the lack of amino acids. Sure, you're getting some whey protein and glutamine peptides but there is a large spectrum of amino acids that BSN could take advantage of and they don't.

MuscleTech Cell Tech

Where can I buy it?

• Here's where you can buy MuscleTech Cell Tech.

Pros of MuscleTech Cell Tech

Cell Tech is an excellent post-workout supplement that has been specifically designed to be used following a workout. First up, you're getting important vitamins along with an electrolyte blend to support recovery. More importantly, Cell Tech gives you the essential amino acids L-Leucine, L-Valine, and L-Isoleucine, which have been suggested in numerous studies to boost recovery, trigger protein synthesis, and support muscle building. Finally, just like with Cellmass, you'll also be getting creatine and taurine. (1-7)

Cons of MuscleTech Cell Tech

The only issue with Cell Tech is that we would like to see the amount of essential amino acids be higher. You're getting 2 grams of BCAAs, which isn't bad but it could be a lot better for a recovery drink. One simple solution is to double the dose.

Other than the amino acids, the only other issue is the artificial flavouring and colouring but if you're no stranger to supplements, you know it's easier said than done getting away from this.

Conclusion

Both of these supplements are good but for completely different reasons. Cellmass 2.0 from BSN is more of an intra-workout supplement. Sure, you can definitely benefit from it post-workout but given the formula, we'd suggest using this as an intra-workout supplement. Cell Tech from MuscleTech, on the other hand, is the perfect post-workout drink. It contains the right amino acids, electrolytes, and vitamins for recovery. MuscleTech even threw in Alpha Lipoic AcidLeucine Regulates Translation Initiation of Protein Synthesis in Skeletal Muscle after Exercise. J. Nutr. February 2006 vol. 136 no. 2 533S-537S.