Sometimes slower is better - especially when it comes to the rate of
protein digestion. While rapid protein absorption is desirable immediately
before or after exercise, delayed release is probably more beneficial
throughout the remainder of the day.
Casein
proteins are pH sensitive and gel in the acidic environment of the stomach.
As a result, it can take more than twice as long for caseins to be broken-down
into their amino acid subcomponents than whey and other proteins. Casein
is the most abundant protein present in milk. It is considered a high
quality protein because it is easily assimilated and it supplies sufficient
quantities of amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the body.
Another
benefit is increased satiety (feeling of fullness or satisfaction).
Casein exerts a slight pressure on the stomach walls. In effect, this
pressure signals to the brain to stop eating because the stomach is
full. Casein is the most slowly digested and absorbed type of protein.
This helps create a "timed-release" effect, providing a steady
stream of amino acids to your muscles over a long period of time. The
net result is a greatly enhanced anti-catabolic environment which is
much more friendly to growth and recovery.
