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