If you're a bodybuilder, athlete, general gym-goer, or just someone looking for help with weight loss, you're going to want to invest in some casein protein powder. It's a complete protein derived from milk that many people take as a before bed shake. It includes all the essential amino acids (EEAs) you need, alongside 5 grams of the three BCAAs and glutamine, which is excellent for muscle growth and repair.
This article will look at the benefits of different casein proteins (hydrolyzed and micellar) as well as mixes that contain whey, so you understand which powder will help you achieve your fitness goals. Then, head on to our ranking of the top 10 best casein proteins in the UK. We've got some excellent choices from Optimum Nutrition, Dymatize, Myprotein and Applied Nutrition that aren't to be missed!
Quick List - Top Casein Proteins
Optimum Nutrition
The Gold Medal Winner of Casein Protein
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Casein is a protein found in milk that provides all the essential amino acids your body needs, along with high levels of the three BCAAs. Many sports professionals and bodybuilders take casein as a supplement because it's excellent at helping muscle growth.
It's different from other options, especially the alternative milk-based protein whey as it releases amino acids much slower, over several hours. If you take casein before bed, it'll keep your protein levels high whilst you sleep, helping you recover quicker and stopping your muscles from breaking down.
Casein protein powders have many benefits, but how do you know which one is right for you? We've put together this handy guide containing all the key information on protein types and nutritional content to help you decide!
There are a few different types of casein proteins and blends, each with unique effects. This section will detail what each one is and how it is best used so that you can pick the right one for your needs.
Micellar and hydrolysate are the two main types of casein protein supplements found in powders. You might think you need to decide between one or the other, but you can actually incorporate both into your diet as they work well together.
Casein hydrolysate is for taking straight after your workout. As it's pre-digested, it allows your body to absorb amino acids quickly, which stops your muscles from breaking down. On the other hand, micellar casein should be taken before bed as it releases amino acids slowly over serval hours.
The slow-release stops your protein levels from dropping when you're not eating or drinking for long periods, such as while sleeping. This prevents muscles from breaking down, improving strength and increasing mass.
You'll often see some casein blends containing whey - another fast-release protein that works well with micellar. By taking a mix of the two, you'll significantly increase your muscle mass as whey starts protein synthesis straight after a workout and casein works to prevent muscles from breaking down in the long run.
Although, there is debate over whether this works or not. Some people believe the effects of the whey are lost in a mix because it slows down how fast it's absorbed. If you're unsure, it's best to try different options to see which gives you the best results!
If you're worried about gaining fat from protein powders, look for ones with whey isolate instead of concentrated whey, as it contains less fat and carbohydrates. Also, consider using a powder with whey hydrolysate if you're bodybuilding, as it'll improve performance and recovery.
Are you a bodybuilder looking to bulk up fast? To achieve the best physique, look for a casein and whey mix with a large serving suggestion packed full of carbohydrates and calories. It'll cause extreme weight gain and bulk, helping you develop the muscles you dream of.
On the other hand, if you're an athlete looking to improve performance and strength whilst maintaining your figure, pick a mixture with low calories and carbohydrates but high protein. These formulas are less likely to lead to unwanted weight gain, and the protein content will help increase your metabolism so that you can burn calories faster.
If you're a regular gym-goer looking to build muscle, pick a supplement with a 30-gram serving suggestion that contains around 100 calories and 23 - 25 grams of protein. This is the standard formula designed to achieve good results.
Casein or whey protein isn't the only ingredient you can benefit from in powders. Consider trying a formula with added extras that can further enhance and improve your workout.
Some powders include extra ingredients to enhance the effects of protein powder. Formulas that include vitamin C further enhance the bodybuilding effects of casein, as it helps repair tissue. B vitamins can also help with muscle growth and repair.
But it's not just vitamins that are added, some powders contain minerals like zinc and magnesium. Adding zinc and magnesium to your diet will improve your aerobic abilities, which in turn, increases performance and builds muscle.
If you'd like to lose fat but build lean muscle, consider buying a powder with added 5-HTP, as it's thought to suppress appetite. This ingredient also contains serotonin which can improve your mental health and quality of sleep, allowing the micellar protein to work while you're dreaming.
You might even find some formulas include theanine, which can help you relax before a workout. This is especially beneficial if you drink coffee or take caffeine supplements, as it'll help offset the effects.
Lysine, HMB and leucine are also commonly added to supplements. They're ideal for bodybuilding, as they aid muscle growth, build lean mass and improve strength. Some powders even include a digestive enzyme blend, which will allow you to absorb the protein to help you achieve optimal results.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Casein Slow Digesting Protein Powder | ![]() | The Gold Medal Winner of Casein Protein | |
2 | ICON Nutrition Hibernate Casein Protein Powder | ![]() | Improve Your Sleep Quality for Better Results | |
3 | Dymatize Super Mass Gainer Strawberry | ![]() | Gain Mass Quickly With a 327-Gram Serving | |
4 | Bulk Bedtime Protein Shake | ![]() | Low-Carb and High Protein Mix Before Bed | |
5 | Grenade Hydra 6 Protein Powder | ![]() | Whey-Casein Blend With Reduced Fat | |
6 | Applied Nutrition 100% Micellar Casein | ![]() | A Quality Tested, Gluten-Free Option in Banana | |
7 | THE PROTEIN WORKS 100% Micellar Casein Protein Powder | ![]() | A Low Fat and Sugar Contain to Aid Weight Loss | |
8 | PBN - Premium Body Nutrition Micellar Casein Chocolate | ![]() | A Convenient Way to Increase Muscle Mass | |
9 | Bulk Pepto Pro Powder | ![]() | The Perfect Powder for After Workouts | |
10 | MyProtein Micellar Casein Milk Protein Supplement | ![]() | An Inexpensive Product for Muscle Recovery |
The Optimum Nutrition protein powder is a superb product and so wins our gold medal! Not only does it contain micellar casein for muscle growth, but it's also fortified with zinc and magnesium to further the benefits. The content is low-fat and includes no added sugar - so you won't have any unwanted weight gain - it'll just increase lean mass.
Lots of people who've brought this product love the vanilla and chocolate flavours. Plus, there are 55 servings in each container, so it is sure to last a while before you need to restock.
Powder with combined ingredients is the best because you get multiple benefits for the same price. This protein powder has both casein and 50 milligrams of 5-HTP, which contains serotonin that's thought to increase fat loss and aid sleep. Not to mention, it comes in an irresistible chocolate brownie flavour!
This product also has very low sucrose levels (a sweetener), making it better for the digestive system and gives the powder a more natural taste. You could even add it to your hot chocolate before bed!
If you're looking to gain weight and mass quickly, this is the product you need. There's a recommended 327-gram serving, which will give you 1248 extra calories. The formula also contains whey protein concentrate, which has more carbohydrates and fat than any other type.
The powder includes five different vitamins and minerals, which aid muscle growth and combat fatigue so you can work out harder for longer. Many professional men's physique competitors swear by it!
Are you looking to lose fat whilst maintaining lean muscle? Then this mix is perfect as it contains a particularly low fat and carbohydrate content. It also includes much higher amounts of protein than many other products, which helps to speed up your metabolism.
Unfortunately, a few people aren't too keen on the taste of these shakes, but flavours and tastes are all down to personal opinion. This protein powder also comes in a variety of sizes, so you can easily pick out the best option for you!
Here we have a formula that contains both whey and casein, providing you with the effects of both fast and slow-realise protein. It's not too fattening either, as the whey has been isolated to reduce calories and lactose. It's even suitable for athletics and military personal who are drug tested, and it's been credited by the informed sports programme.
The powder doesn't need to be consumed at a specific time, so this is an ideal option for those who lead busy lives or train at unusual hours. Furthermore, the micellar protein in the mix is high-quality and ultra-filtered.
Most casein proteins come in chocolate, vanilla or strawberry, but with this one, you also have the choice of delicious banana! The formula is also gluten-free, so it's suitable for anyone with an allergy or coeliac disease. If that didn't sell you, it even has an added digestive enzyme blend, which helps your body absorb the casein.
It contains a high level of protein, and the formula has been quality tested, so it's almost certain you'll get good results. The powder has even been assessed to ensure it contains no banned substances that could stop athletes from competing.
This protein powder is low in fat, sugar and carbohydrates but high in protein which could greatly help weight loss. It comes in various sizes, from 500 g to 2 kg, so you should easily be able to find a deal that suits you routine.
If you decide to turn it into a drink, they'll be no waiting around as it mixes instantly, however, you could also add it to your home-baking! Sadly, some people who've purchased this have had trouble achieving a smooth consistency.
The PBN casein powder has been specially formulated for athletes looking to increase muscle mass. All you have to do is add 30 grams of the mix to 250 millilitres of water, and it'll be ready to drink! It comes in chocolate, vanilla and strawberry flavours, so there's something to suit everyone's tastes.
Some buyers have found this mix to be a little too sweet as it contains a lot of sweeteners. Despite this, it's a great powder that
contains slow-release micellar that will greatly help with muscle recovery.
Next up, we have some casein hydrolysate that can work alongside the Bulk night-time shake. Use this blend during or after a workout for a fast release and the slow-acting micellar shake before bed.
The formula comes in mixed berry, topical and unflavoured varieties, making this a great alternative for those who don't like the more common chocolate or vanilla flavours. It has a smaller serving recommendation than some other protein powders, so you might want to take two helpings to get optimal results.
The MyProtein powder is an excellent choice if you're on a bit of a budget as it contains 1 kg for a fairly reasonable price. Use this product in the evening before bed as it contains slow-realise micellar casein, which aids muscle recovery. Plus, it's free from soy, so it's suitable for people who have an allergy.
This mix may not be everyone's cup of tea, as some people find the flavour unpleasant. However, it does contain a high protein content, so it's highly likely to produce the effects you're after.
To build bigger and stronger muscles, consider investing in some whey protein and BCAA supplements to use alongside your casein powder. Many powders include dairy, so if you're vegan, you should look at our article on alternative plant-based proteins.
Now that you've reached the end of our article, you should know exactly how to choose the right casein powder for your needs. Remember to pay attention to protein content and extra ingredients to find the most effective product for you!
Author: Rosa Fairfield
No. 1: Optimum Nutrition|Gold Standard Casein Slow Digesting Protein Powder
No. 2: ICON Nutrition|Hibernate Casein Protein Powder
No. 3: Dymatize|Super Mass Gainer Strawberry
No. 4: Bulk|Bedtime Protein Shake
No. 5: Grenade|Hydra 6 Protein Powder
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