Optimum Nutrition's 100% Casein Gold Protein is the most beneficial sustained release protein. Whilst whey protein is desirable just before and after training, 100% Casein Gold is ideal for the rest of the day. A slow assimilated protein is very important for athletes as it can provide anabolic cover throughout the night. The choice of protein is crucial for this variable rate of assimilation. Egg protein (albumin) or milk protein (casein) are therefore much more interesting from a biological point of view at certain times of the day, such as before going to bed. Casein protein has a very high biological value and the body needs 6-8 hours to fully process it. During this entire assimilation phase, it supplies the body with amino acids. It is this permanent and sustained release of amino acids that gives casein its anti-catabolic properties. Taking 100% Casein Gold contributes to a good recovery after training and to the rebuilding of muscle fibres. It also slows down the breakdown of muscle fibres due to fatigue or intensive training and protects against muscle atrophy. If the body lacks protein intake, the amino acid reserves in the muscles are quickly depleted. This product contains 10 g of essential amino acids. The casein protein, which distributes its amino acids very slowly in the body, helps to prevent muscle catabolism during these long periods. This slowly digestible protein, which supports the growth and rebuilding of muscles, contains zinc and magnesium. Zinc contributes to the normal function of the immune system and magnesium supports protein synthesis.