Side Effects of taking Casein Protein

Casein is a protein that is generally found in dairy products such as milk, cheese, yoghurt and butter. This protein is also taken as a supplement by those who want to build their muscles via protein supplement intake. Therefore, casein is not only a part of the dairy or some non dairy products, but is also an essential component for those who go on protein diets in order to build their muscles. This protein, when taken naturally, is not as harmful but it does have few side effects which are as follows:

Allergic reactions:

Some people tend to be allergic to casein and there by, show different reactions to it. Immediate reactions, also known as anaphylactic reactions, occur commonly in these people. Some people might also exhibit delayed reactions. Allergic reactions to casein can be manifested by rashes, fever, hives, wheals, erythema, sneezing and even difficulty in breathing. People who are allergic to casein should therefore avoid all the dairy products and even those non dairy products which tend to contain casein.

Gastrointestinal disturbance:

People who are unable to digest casein or take too much of it face severe gastrointestinal disturbance. The symptoms of this varies from bloating to nausea, vomiting or even diarrhea. Proper management of this condition should be done and casein should again be avoided in these people as they are unable to tolerate any kind of casein intake.

Food cravings:

Casein intake generally causes food cravings in people and tends to increase their appetite. This phenomenon is proved by a study conducted in which it was found that when casein is digested, it breaks down into an opiate product which is similar to morphine. The resultant effect of that opiate compound is that it causes hunger pangs and a craving for that product consumed. For instance, after the consumption of cheese, one might feel hunger pangs and craving for more cheese which is not psychological, but rather related to the opiate released from the casein present in cheese.

The above mentioned side effects of casein should not be over looked and taken care of while consuming dairy products and supplements.