If you're looking to boost muscle recovery and maximize gains at the gym, casein protein can make a great addition to your supplement routine. The Vitamin Shoppe offers dozens of casein powder options from top brands like Optimum Nutrition, Rivalus, Dymatize Nutrition, Kaged Muscle, and BodyTech. Our selection of high-quality and top-selling casein protein powder solutions makes it easy to get a good price on great casein powder. Learn how this form of protein can support your active life and help you make the most of your diet and exercise regimen.

What is Casein Protein? Casein vs. Whey

People with a lactose intolerance or dairy or milk allergies should probably avoid both whey and casein protein powders. (Check out our plant-based protein section for a range of lactose-free and vegan options.) Casein and whey proteins both help support healthy muscle function, but they do so in different ways. Both protein types include essential branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) like leucine and isoleucine. Whey offers a quick burst of amino acids that gets absorbed quickly, while casein provides a slower release. Casein contains a lower percentage of amino acids than whey, but its slow release action provides a steady protein supply and muscle support over a longer period of time.

How to Use Casein Powders

The differences between casein protein and whey protein make them ideal to use in complementary ways, whether you're trying to build muscle, curb hunger, or preserve lean body mass. For example, taking whey directly after a workout can help replenish and feed your muscles faster by providing a quick boost of amino acids. Taking casein protein as a meal replacement or right before bed, on the other hand, could help you take advantage of its longer lasting benefits – the slow release of amino acids may keep you fuller longer or help boost the muscle recovery processes that occur naturally during sleep. It can sometimes be a challenge to preserve lean muscle mass when you're dieting to achieve or maintain a more healthy weight. Because casein powders feed your muscles over longer periods of time, this kind of protein can also help preserve the amino acids your body has already stored up. Protecting your stores of amino acids helps ensure your muscles have what they need to stay strong, even when you're dieting. And even if weight management isn't your primary goal, supplementing with casein may help boost your gains by reducing muscle breakdown. At The Vitamin Shoppe, you can find the best casein protein brands in a variety of delicious flavors like French vanilla, rich chocolate, and cookies and cream. Refine results by specialty for wheat-free, fish-free, soy-free, and other options to find the right product and formula for your needs. We also offer gluten-free and low-carb casein protein supplements to support a range of diets. Shop online or stop by your local The Vitamin Shoppe to find top-shelf casein protein powder from trusted brands today.