As you probably already know, the bodybuilding, health, and fitness supplement market in general, is absolutely booming, with the business now being better than ever before. In terms of popular supplements, particularly for bodybuilding, whey protein is currently at the number one spot and has been there for quite some time. We need protein to help our bodies recover and to rebuild bigger and stronger muscles following intense workouts in the gym.
What you may not have realized before, however, is that, in actual fact, protein comes in a variety of different forms, each one serving its very own unique purpose in the process. Casein protein, for example, is another hugely popular bodybuilding protein supplement that is incredibly beneficial for anybody looking to get in shape and build a physique to be proud of. Casein protein, however, is very different from whey protein, and therefore the benefits associated with casein protein, are also very different. Here’s a more in-depth look at some of the main advantages and benefits of using casein protein supplements.
- It Is Packed Full Of Goodness
Of course, it’s rich in protein, which we’ll come to in more detail a little shortly, but in the meantime, we can’t ignore the fact that casein protein is also packed full of other nutrients that do the body a world of good. Casein protein contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and much more besides, all of which are very healthy and beneficial for us indeed. For example, casein protein is rich in magnesium, which helps regulate blood sugar levels, promotes cardiovascular health and function, speeds up rates of absorption in the body and much more besides. The vitamins it contains also help us as they enhance the immune system, which in turn helps to make us fitter and healthier in the process. Combine all of this together, and you’re left with a pretty healthy supplement that serves a number of very real purposes. - Casein Protein Promotes Lean Muscle Growth
The main benefit of casein protein, however, is the fact that it is a slow-releasing, slow-digesting protein, which means that it is absolutely perfect for consuming right before going to bed. When we lift weights in the gym, we aren’t building muscle at all, what we’re actually doing is destroying existing muscle fiber. We build muscle when we rest, as our bodies synthesise new muscle proteins, making them bigger and stronger than before, thus increasing the size of our muscles. However, in order to do so, the body needs a constant stream of proteins and amino acids. When we sleep, we don’t get any because we don’t eat or drink, so if the body doesn’t have access to them, it can’t repair itself. Drinking a whey protein shake, or eating a couple of chicken breasts right before bed won’t help either, because these proteins will quickly be broken down, absorbed, and used up, leaving the body without what it needs a couple of hours later. Casein protein, however, is perfect because it is a slow-release protein. Right before going to bed, drinking a casein protein shake will mean that for several hours, pretty much until you wake up, you get a steady stream of proteins being released, which in turn will give your body the nutrients required for rebuilding and repairing your muscles. - It Promotes Fat Loss
Another great benefit of casein protein is the fact that it promotes fat loss. It does this in several ways. To begin with, the protein itself is low in calories and is virtually fat free, but perhaps more importantly, as it is so thermogenic and so slow to digest, the body is forced to expel more energy just trying to digest it and break it down, which means that by simply trying to digest and break it down, you burn more calories and your metabolism gradually begins to improve more and more. The fat loss benefits don’t stop there, however, because if you are worried about overeating, or getting hungry again, a casein protein shake will keep you feeling full for hours upon hours, which means you’ll be less likely to overeat and you’ll be less likely to suffer from hunger pains and cravings for unhealthy junk food. - It’s Convenient
Like all protein supplements, one of the main benefits of casein protein is its sheer convenience. To benefit from the protein and the nutrients found in a single casein protein shake, you would need to consume vast amounts of whole foods, which at certain times of the day, and financially speaking, is not always convenient or ideal. Instead, simply mix a couple of scoops with water or milk if you prefer, and then proceed to drink up. - It’s Versatile
Remember, just because casein protein is primarily intended to be consumed as a shake, that doesn’t mean you have to always consume it as a shake. The great thing about protein powders of this nature is that you can use them in a number of different ways. For example, some people will add protein to batter mixes, or cake mixes, and make healthier versions of certain foods. Some people will use it as a primary ingredient, to make things like slow-release protein pancakes, flapjacks, or muffins perhaps.
