There are a lot of casein protein supplements on the market today and it can be difficult to know which one is the best. Luckily, if you follow these tips, you can get an easy overview of all the options and find the one that best suits your needs.
Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard line
Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard casein protein line is an excellent choice for athletes. It comes in great flavors and provides plenty of amino acids to support muscle rebuilding and maintenance. But before you buy it, you need to know the facts.
Optimum Nutrition’s 100% Casein is manufactured with premium micellar casein as its primary protein source. This protein is ultra-filtered and contains a digestive enzyme called Aminogen. In addition, it is fortified with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which have been touted for their recovery abilities.
The protein powder can be mixed with oatmeal, yogurt, and other protein-rich foods. For best results, a serving should be combined with 5-6 ounces of liquid. If you’re on a keto diet, you’ll want to be sure you know the carb content of your casein protein powder.
While casein is a slower digesting protein, you should still consume it as part of a balanced diet. It is a rich source of calcium, which can strengthen bones and teeth. However, it’s also acid-sensitive, so it can thicken in the stomach.
Another option is to use a whey protein powder instead. You can find many whey proteins on the market, but they’re often expensive. Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Isolate is an affordable choice. A two-scoop serving packs 24 grams of protein and 5.5 grams of BCAAs.
Alternatively, you could try a protein shake. The Gold Standard Protein Shake is available in a wide range of flavors and offers a convenient format. Each serving is fortified with vitamins and minerals to help support a healthy immune system and bones.
Some users report a grainy texture in some cases, but it is a minor complaint. If you’re concerned, you can check out Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard whey, which mixes easily with water.
Six Star
Six Star Casein Protein is a protein supplement designed for athletes. It features slow-digesting casein to help you feed your muscles with amino acids. And because it is a slow-release protein, it may lead to quicker recovery from workouts. Compared to other supplements, it’s also one of the cheapest options available.
The most important thing to know about Six Star Casein Protein is that it contains a clinically-proven ingredient that builds muscle. Soy lecithin and milk protein isolate are among the ingredients. In addition, it’s manufactured according to cGMP standards. That means the quality of the product is very high.
Another thing to consider is the amount of calories you’re getting in each serving. As a general rule, you’re looking for about 20 grams of protein per serving. Some products may have more than that. You’ll want to keep an eye on the carb and fat content too.
While the most accurate way to compare protein powders is to compare them side-by-side, you should also check for third-party testing. Third-party certifications will ensure that the product has been tested for the right ingredients and that the labeling is accurate.
When looking for a casein protein powder, you want to look for a product that has a good concentration of protein and that has a decent amount of other nutrients. You also need to be sure that it has a good flavor and that it has a good consistency.
One of the best things about Six Star Casein Protein is that it’s relatively cheap. You can buy it in 2 pounds packs at select retailers. However, it doesn’t dissolve well in a shaker. Instead, it’s best to mix it with skim milk.
Transparent Labs
Transparent Labs best casein protein is a high-quality casein supplement made with all-natural ingredients. It is gluten-free and lactose-free, and it’s one of the cleanest powders in the industry.
This brand’s protein is created with only pure micellar casein. The product is free of artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and colors. In addition, its formula provides a full profile of essential amino acids.
One scoop of this protein contains 25 grams of protein. While you won’t get the full recommended daily dose of amino acids from this supplement, it’s a good choice for getting in some protein in the afternoon or evening. If you’re looking to build muscle, this protein will help you reach your goals.
However, if you’re allergic to dairy products, this might not be the best option. Some people have trouble digesting the lactose in this product. To avoid problems, you can use this protein sparingly. You should also mix it with fruit or other foods.
Grass-fed, hormone-free cows are used to make the protein in this product. Pasture-fed cows have higher levels of nutrients than those raised in a factory. They also produce milk that’s better for your health.
This protein powder is also gluten-free and is free of artificial sweeteners and food dyes. It’s also 100% naturally flavored. That’s why many people consider it the cleanest casein protein available.
It’s also available in chocolate and peanut butter flavors. Besides these two flavors, the product also comes in French vanilla and strawberry. Moreover, you can subscribe to the company’s subscription plan and receive a discount.
Transparent Labs is a company that focuses on science, clinical testing, and transparency. They are proud to say that their ingredient labels are very clear and they disclose all the exact amounts of ingredients.
Dymatize
If you’re looking for a casein protein supplement, you’ll want to consider Dymatize Elite Casein Protein. This popular brand offers a variety of flavors that range from rich chocolate to smooth vanilla. It also comes in a large four-pound canister that costs less than a dollar a serving. Plus, Dymatize Elite Casein Protein has been approved by ConsumerLab, so you know you’re getting something safe and effective.
As with any product, there are pros and cons to each. One drawback to Dymatize Elite Casein is that it has a longer ingredient list than other casein powders. However, it also contains 25 grams of protein per serving. In addition, it’s free of artificial sweeteners and contains zero grams of sugar. Another plus is the fact that it is certified by the Informed Choice program.
Unlike some casein supplements, Elite Casein has no ingredients that have been banned from use in sports. For example, it is gluten free, and it has been tested to make sure it is free of banned substances. While the price tag can be a little steep, if you’re a beginner or a professional athlete, it’s worth a try. You can find this protein in cookies and cream and cinnamon bun flavor.
Vital Performance
Vital Performance is a protein supplement with a blend of whey and casein proteins. It’s been designed for athletes and other fitness enthusiasts. There are 25 grams of protein in every serving, along with 5 grams of BCAAs, a gram of fat, and five grams of sugar. A bonus is that the powder also contains no artificial ingredients. In fact, it’s sweetened with stevia leaf Reb M and monk fruit extract. If you’re in the market for a high-protein, low-calorie, gluten-free supplement, look no further than Vital Performance.
The icing on the cake is that the product is NSF Certified for Sport and backed by science. When looking for a good powder to supplement your diet, you need to choose something that’s safe and effective. For example, a supplement that’s NSF Certified for Sport and contains only the most reputable whey and casein proteins should be considered. But don’t take NOW Sports Nutrition’s word for it, check the ingredients list and ask to see a bottle before committing to a purchase.
The most important thing to remember is that a supplement’s efficacy depends on the quality of its ingredients. Fortunately, the team at NOW Sports Nutrition uses only the best whey and casein proteins in their products, making them an ideal choice for athletes.
