Differences In Protein



Casein protein is derived from dairy. It is made up of 80% of the protein contained in milk. Casein is nicknamed the “slow protein” because it actually forms a clot in the stomach. Do not worry this clot is not dangerous. This clot in the stomach gives a person a slow intake of the protein.

This steady stream of protein into the bloodstream disables any muscle breakdown that may occur and allows cells a longer time to absorb all the protein. In a 2006 case study by Baylor University in Texas people who used casein combined with whey showed more muscle growth than those who used only whey.

Casein is usually taken before sleep. This eliminates any protein breakdown at night time. So if you are looking for a slow protein then casein is for you.

Egg protein is another alternative to protein supplements. Egg protein is usually refined from egg whites into powder that is mixed into food or drink. Egg protein contains all the essential amino acids and is similar to whey and soy.

This protein digestion rate is sandwiched between casein on the bottom and whey and soy on the top. It is not the slowest but comes close. The big difference is that egg protein is made from eggs. People who are lactose intolerant and allergic to soy have few to none options in their protein supplement; egg protein provides the amino acids for them. It is important to add that egg protein is the most expensive protein.

Whey is the most recommended type of protein. Whey is created from 20% of dairy protein, and also like casein has calcium in it. This calcium helps in dental heath, bone heath, and helps a user lose weight. It is usually taken during the pre-workout and post workout period. Whey creates a hike of insulin which forces the cells to accept and absorb more protein.

Whey protein also has a component in it which dilates the bloodstream causing faster digestion. This protein is recommended so much because of its high ingestion rate and high BCAAs. Whey is the most soluble out of all four proteins so it comes in the most abundant flavors. Being the most recommended protein whey is the cheapest protein due to the humongous demand for it.

Lastly soy protein is derived from soy beans. This non-animal type of protein digests almost as fast as whey. Soy supports a healthy cardiovascular system and prevents cancer such as breast or prostate. This protein has an antioxidant quality that prevents free radicals from causing cancer. Do not be fooled by its non-animal resource soy protein contains all the essential amino acids for the human body.

Many myths and rumors about estrogen and testosterone level fluctuation steered people out of using soy protein, but it has been proven false in many studies. Soy protein is second highest in the solubility and thus comes in more variety of flavors than casein or egg. Soy is second cheapest to whey and is a good alternative with high health benefits.