What Are Casein Peptones?

Casein peptones, or peptides, are proteins produced when the body breaks down and digests casein. Casein is a protein found in milk and milk products. Casein peptides are still being studied to determine their ability to treat certain diseases and conditions as well as potentially prevent certain cancers. Many people with autism avoid consuming casein peptides because some believe it triggers a food allergy which increases negative symptoms associated with the condition.

What is Casein?

• Casein is the most significant protein found in milk. There are four types of casein proteins found in milk. Casein provides the body with calcium and phosphorus as well as amino acids. It is also a source of carbohydrates. When milk sours or spoils, the casein protein is what curdles. Casein is used for making cheese, protein supplements, certain glues and some paints.

What are Casein Peptones?

• Casein peptones, or casein peptides, are essentially milk protein byproducts. When casein proteins are digested in the body, it creates protein particles called casein peptides. These peptides are most often consumed by eating and drinking milk products. However, casein peptones are sometimes taken in dietary supplements, such as vitamin pills. Casein peptides are also used in some cosmetic products.

What do Casein Peptides do in the Body?

• Some casein peptides are thought to dilate blood vessels, lowering blood pressure. There is some evidence to suggest that casein peptides are helpful in treating epilepsy, high cholesterol, stress and intestinal disorders. However, information concerning the effectiveness of these proteins in treating these diseases is somewhat limited, so more research is needed in this area. Generally, consuming casein peptones through diet alone is safe for most people. But, more information is needed to determine if supplements containing casein peptides are completely safe. Casein peptones may cause negative drug interactions when taken with other medications. People who have milk allergies will likely want to avoid casein peptides.

Other Names for Casein Peptides

• Casein peptides are known by a plethora of other names, including: C12, calcium caseinate, sour milk extract, isoleucyl-prolyl-proline, milk protein extract, hydrolyzed casein, casein tripeptide, potassium caseinate, lactalbumin hydrolysate, and hypotensive peptides.