Casein vs. Whey

Many fitness fanatics and wellness gurus want to know the difference between casein and whey, so they can feel more confident they are making the right choices when it comes to their health supplements. Protein has been the best friend of gym goers for decades, and the vast majority of people looking to build muscle readily see its benefits. However, deciding which type of protein is best can get a little more complicated.

To support your health and fitness goals, our team at SupplementSource.ca is sharing the key differences between casein and whey. From there, you can stock up on the best products for your body type and fitness goals.

What is Casein?

One thing casein and whey share in common is that they are both byproducts of cheese production, so they come from cow’s milk. Casein protein is derived from the parts of the milk that coagulate (aka turn into a solid state). This substance is then washed, dried and transformed into the supplement powder you put into your favourite smoothie.

What is Whey?

As mentioned above, whey protein also comes from milk, and it is a byproduct of the process that creates one of the world’s favourite foods – cheese. Unlike casein, whey comes from the watery part of the extraction. Once the liquid is extracted, it is concentrated and then turned into the supplement you use to power your pump.

The Difference Between Casein and Whey Protein

There are a few differences between whey and casein that lifters and gym-goers alike may want to be aware of when choosing which supplement is best for them.

• Whey creates BCAAS, leucine, isoleucine, and valine, which support muscle repair and give you extra energy when working through a tough workout.
• Casein is absorbed more slowly than whey – which means whey is faster acting, but it also passes relatively quickly, so the benefit is seen about 20 minutes after it is taken and then declines within about two hours
• Whey can help build bulk faster than casein, but casein prevents muscle breakdown over the longer term
• Due to the breakdown rates of casein and whey, they should be taken at different times of the day – depending on what you are hoping to achieve
• The high content of leucine in whey makes it specifically beneficial for muscle building, while casein is more effective at preventing protein breakdown during periods where protein consumption might be low such as during sleep
• Both supplements provide a wide range of benefits that affect the body differently: casein has peptides for immunity, controlling blood pressure and digestive effectiveness, while whey is recognized as a powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial agent

Which is Better: Whey or Casein?

There is no clear answer to which protein is better. It totally depends on your goals and how you want to approach supplementation. Whey protein may be better for bodybuilders who are looking to engage in intense, short workouts that produce bigger muscles faster. Alternatively, casein may be the right choice for athletes who are looking for protein that supports longer-term endurance. If you are participating in a tournament, spending the day engaged in activity or just looking for a meal replacement, casein may be the route for you.

But, rather than choosing whey OR casein, what may be the best choice for those looking to build, nourish and repair muscles while incorporating more protein in their diets with a variety of benefits, is to supplement with both whey and casein. You can take whey right before your workouts and use casein throughout the day to replace your meals or supplement for even more energy and muscle repair.

Shop Whey and Casein Supplements at SupplementSource.ca

Regardless of which protein direction you decide to take your diet, you can find a wide variety of protein products that will transform your relationship with your workouts and your body at SupplementSource.ca. Shop our easy-to-navigate online store based on your goals, dietary preferences and favourite products, so you can get the supplements you need and the results you want.