nounIntermediate
Definition
Opioid peptide fragment released from the milk protein casein during digestion; β-casomorphin-7 (Tyr-Pro-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro-Ile) is the best-studied example.
Detailed Explanation
Casomorphins are food-derived opioid peptides (exorphins) produced when digestive enzymes cleave bovine or human casein. They bind μ-opioid receptors in the gut and, if they cross the intestinal barrier, potentially in the brain. β-Casomorphin-7 from A1 β-casein (a genetic variant more common in European cattle breeds) has attracted controversy due to hypothesized links to various health conditions, though large-scale human evidence remains limited. A2 milk comes from cows that produce only A2 β-casein, which generates less casomorphin during digestion.
Key Facts
- Casomorphins are food-derived opioid peptides (exorphins) produced when digestive enzymes cleave bovine or human casein
- They bind μ-opioid receptors in the gut and, if they cross the intestinal barrier, potentially in the brain
- β-Casomorphin-7 from A1 β-casein (a genetic variant more common in European cattle breeds) has attracted controversy due to hypothesized links to various health conditions, though large-scale human evidence remains limited
- A2 milk comes from cows that produce only A2 β-casein, which generates less casomorphin during digestion
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