Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Casein Protein Hydrolysate

Also known as: Casein hydrolysate, hydrolyzed casein protein, enzymatically hydrolyzed casein, Casein Protein Hydrolysate

Overview

Casein Protein Hydrolysate (CPH) is a protein supplement derived from casein, the primary protein found in milk. It is produced through enzymatic hydrolysis, a process that breaks down intact casein into smaller peptides and amino acids. This hydrolysis results in a product that is more rapidly absorbed by the body compared to intact casein. CPH is primarily used as a dietary protein supplement to support muscle recovery and has been extensively studied for its potential to regulate appetite and improve cardiovascular health. Key characteristics include its faster absorption rate and the presence of bioactive peptides, particularly those with angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory properties. Research indicates that CPH can significantly reduce blood pressure, making it a valuable supplement for individuals seeking to manage hypertension. While its primary benefits are related to cardiovascular health, some research also suggests potential influences on lipid oxidation and energy expenditure.

Benefits

Casein Protein Hydrolysate (CPH) offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily in cardiovascular health. The most significant and well-supported benefit is its ability to reduce blood pressure. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) demonstrated that CPH supplementation significantly reduced systolic blood pressure (SBP) by approximately 3.2 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) by 1.5 mmHg. These reductions, while modest, are clinically relevant as even small decreases in blood pressure can significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular events. The blood pressure-lowering effects have been observed consistently across various age groups, with some indications of stronger effects in older adults. The onset of these benefits can be relatively rapid, with significant reductions observed in short-term interventions (less than 8 weeks). Additionally, some smaller RCTs suggest that CPH may increase lipid oxidation and energy expenditure compared to intact casein, potentially influencing body composition and appetite regulation, though this evidence is less conclusive. No significant effects have been observed on blood lipids (total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides) or fasting blood glucose levels.

How it works

Casein Protein Hydrolysate (CPH) exerts its primary effects through the action of bioactive peptides generated during the hydrolysis process. The key mechanism involves the inhibition of angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE). ACE is an enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor that narrows blood vessels and increases blood pressure. By inhibiting ACE, CPH peptides reduce the production of angiotensin II, leading to vasodilation and a subsequent reduction in blood pressure. This action primarily modulates the renin-angiotensin system, which plays a crucial role in regulating vascular tone and fluid balance. Furthermore, CPH is absorbed more rapidly than intact casein, ensuring faster availability of these bioactive peptides and amino acids in the bloodstream, which contributes to its quicker onset of action. Some research also suggests CPH may influence metabolic pathways related to lipid oxidation and energy expenditure, although the exact mechanisms are less defined.

Side effects

Casein Protein Hydrolysate (CPH) is generally considered safe and well-tolerated in healthy adults. Clinical trials have reported no significant common (greater than 5%) or uncommon (1-5%) adverse effects. There is no data indicating rare (less than 1%) adverse events associated with its use. However, individuals with a known milk protein allergy should strictly avoid CPH, as it is derived from milk casein. Similarly, those with severe lactose intolerance should exercise caution, although the hydrolysis process typically reduces lactose content significantly. Potential drug interactions exist, particularly with antihypertensive medications. Due to its blood pressure-lowering effects, CPH may have additive effects when taken concurrently with blood pressure-lowulating drugs, potentially leading to hypotension. Therefore, individuals on antihypertensive medication should consult their healthcare provider before supplementing with CPH. The safety profile for special populations such as pregnant or lactating women, children, or individuals with kidney disease has not been well-studied, and caution is advised in these groups.

Dosage

The effective dosage for Casein Protein Hydrolysate (CPH) for blood pressure reduction, as indicated by research, generally ranges from 1 to 3 grams of casein hydrolysate peptides per day. Optimal dosage appears to be around 1.5 to 3 grams daily for cardiovascular benefits. Studies have shown significant effects within short-term supplementation periods, typically less than 8 weeks. The maximum safe dose has not been definitively established, but doses up to 3 grams daily have been used safely in clinical studies. CPH is typically administered as a powder or in capsule form. Due to its hydrolyzed nature, it is absorbed more rapidly than intact casein, which contributes to its efficacy. There are no specific timing considerations relative to meals that have been clearly defined as critical for its effectiveness. No specific cofactors are identified as necessary to enhance its absorption or efficacy.

FAQs

Is casein hydrolysate more effective than intact casein?

Yes, hydrolyzed casein is absorbed faster than intact casein, leading to quicker availability of its bioactive peptides. This can result in more pronounced effects, particularly on blood pressure and potentially metabolism.

Can casein hydrolysate replace other protein supplements?

Casein hydrolysate can be used as a protein supplement similar to others, but it offers additional unique benefits, especially for cardiovascular health due to its blood pressure-lowering properties.

Are there any safety concerns with casein hydrolysate?

Casein hydrolysate is generally safe. However, individuals with milk protein allergies should avoid it. Caution is also advised for those on antihypertensive medications due to potential additive blood pressure-lowering effects.

How soon can effects be seen from casein hydrolysate?

Blood pressure-lowering effects from casein hydrolysate supplementation have been observed within a few weeks of consistent use in clinical studies.

Does casein hydrolysate affect blood sugar or cholesterol?

Current research indicates that casein hydrolysate does not significantly affect blood lipid levels (cholesterol, triglycerides) or fasting blood glucose levels.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9573574/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis published in Nutrients (2022) evaluated the effect of casein hydrolysate on blood pressure. It included multiple randomized controlled trials and found significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, supporting its role in cardiovascular health. The study highlighted the robust methodology and lack of publication bias, despite some heterogeneity in intervention durations.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36235859/ – This PubMed entry corresponds to the same systematic review and meta-analysis published in Nutrients (2022). It confirms the findings of significant blood pressure reduction with casein hydrolysate supplementation, emphasizing its potential as a dietary intervention for hypertension. The research found no significant effects on blood lipids or fasting glucose.
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/effects-of-hydrolysed-casein-intact-casein-and-intact-whey-protein-on-energy-expenditure-and-appetite-regulation-a-randomised-controlled-crossover-study/C90335661B4E43ACA05E7C80032D951F – This randomized controlled crossover study from the British Journal of Nutrition (2014) compared the metabolic effects of hydrolyzed casein, intact casein, and whey protein. It found that hydrolyzed casein increased lipid oxidation and had faster absorption compared to intact casein, suggesting potential benefits for energy expenditure and body composition. The study focused on acute effects and involved a moderate sample size.