Cr

Creatine is a naturally occurring compound found in small amounts in various foods and synthesized within the human body. It plays a pivotal role in energy metabolism, particularly in tissues with high and fluctuating energy demands, such as muscles and the brain.



What is Creatine?

Creatine is a naturally occurring compound found in small amounts in various foods and synthesized within the human body. It plays a pivotal role in energy metabolism, particularly in tissues with high and fluctuating energy demands, such as muscles and the brain. In the body, creatine is primarily stored in skeletal muscles, where it exists in two forms: free creatine and creatine phosphate. Around 95% of the body’s creatine is stored in muscles, with the remaining 5% distributed in the brain, liver, kidneys, and testes.

The body synthesizes creatine from the amino acids arginine, glycine, and methionine. This synthesis primarily occurs in the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. Once produced, creatine is transported through the bloodstream to muscle tissues, where it is used to regenerate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of the cell. This regeneration allows for rapid energy production during short bursts of high-intensity exercise.

Creatine is also available as a dietary supplement, often in the form of creatine monohydrate, which is one of the most well-researched and widely used forms. Supplements are typically used by athletes and individuals engaging in high-intensity training to enhance muscle mass, strength, and performance. Due to its role in energy production, creatine is also being studied for its potential benefits in various health conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases and muscle-wasting disorders.

Creatine’s popularity as a supplement stems from its efficacy and safety profile. Numerous studies have demonstrated that creatine supplementation can significantly improve physical performance, particularly in activities that require short bursts of high energy. Additionally, creatine has been shown to have potential cognitive benefits, though more research is needed in this area to fully understand its effects on brain function.

Back to table of contents


What is Creatine used for, and what do the studies say?

Creatine is primarily used as an ergogenic aid to enhance physical performance, particularly in high-intensity, short-duration activities such as weightlifting, sprinting, and other explosive movements. The primary benefit of creatine supplementation is its ability to increase the phosphocreatine stores in muscles, which facilitates the rapid regeneration of ATP, the main energy source for muscle contractions. This allows athletes to perform at higher intensities for longer periods of time, leading to improvements in strength, power, and muscle mass.

A multitude of studies supports the efficacy of creatine supplementation. For instance, a meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism found that creatine supplementation significantly enhances maximal power/strength, work performed during sets of maximal effort muscle contractions, and single-effort sprint performance. Another study in Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise demonstrated that creatine could increase muscle mass and enhance performance in high-intensity resistance training.

Beyond its benefits in athletic performance, creatine is also being investigated for its potential therapeutic effects in various health conditions. Research published in Biological Psychiatry has shown that creatine supplementation can improve symptoms of depression by enhancing brain energy metabolism and promoting the synthesis of neurotransmitters like serotonin. Additionally, studies have indicated that creatine may help manage symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Huntington's disease by protecting neuronal cells from energy depletion and oxidative stress.

Creatine has also shown promise in improving cognitive function and reducing mental fatigue. A study in the Journal of Sports Sciences found that creatine supplementation could improve cognitive performance in tasks requiring rapid processing and mental endurance, particularly under conditions of sleep deprivation or mental fatigue.

In summary, creatine is widely used to enhance physical performance and muscle mass in athletes and individuals engaged in high-intensity training. Additionally, emerging research suggests potential benefits in mental health, cognitive function, and neuroprotection, making creatine a versatile supplement with a broad range of applications.

Back to table of contents


How does Creatine work?

Creatine works primarily by enhancing the body's ability to generate ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the primary energy carrier in cells. This process is especially critical during short bursts of high-intensity exercise, where ATP demand is extremely high. Here’s a closer look at how creatine functions in the body:

  1. ATP Regeneration: During high-intensity activities, ATP is rapidly broken down to ADP (adenosine diphosphate) to release energy. Creatine phosphate (also known as phosphocreatine) stored in muscles donates a phosphate group to ADP to quickly regenerate ATP, thereby providing a rapid energy source. This process helps maintain muscle performance and delays fatigue during short, explosive exercises like sprinting or weightlifting.
  2. Increased Phosphocreatine Stores: By supplementing with creatine, the levels of creatine phosphate in the muscle cells increase. This elevated store of phosphocreatine allows for greater ATP regeneration capacity, thereby improving performance in high-intensity, short-duration activities. Studies have shown that supplementation can increase muscle creatine content by 10-40%, depending on the individual’s initial levels and the dosage used.
  3. Enhanced Muscle Protein Synthesis: Creatine has been shown to influence muscle hypertrophy (growth) not only by allowing more intense training but also by stimulating key pathways involved in muscle protein synthesis. For example, it may enhance the signaling of the mTOR pathway, which plays a crucial role in muscle growth and recovery.
  4. Cell Hydration and Volume: Creatine also causes muscle cells to retain water, leading to an increase in cell volume. This hyperhydration of muscle cells can serve as an anabolic signal, promoting protein synthesis and reducing protein breakdown. The increase in muscle cell volume contributes to the initial weight gain often observed with creatine supplementation.
  5. Neuroprotective Effects: In the brain, creatine helps in maintaining energy homeostasis. It supports the survival of neurons by buffering cellular ATP levels, thereby protecting brain cells from energy depletion and reducing the production of reactive oxygen species. This neuroprotective role is why creatine is being explored as a potential therapeutic agent in neurodegenerative diseases and conditions characterized by high metabolic stress.

In summary, creatine primarily enhances physical performance by boosting ATP regeneration, increasing muscle phosphocreatine stores, promoting muscle protein synthesis, and improving cell hydration. These mechanisms not only improve athletic performance but also offer potential benefits for muscle growth, recovery, and overall cellular health.

Back to table of contents


How is Creatine used differently in men’s and women’s health?

Creatine is widely recognized for its benefits in enhancing physical performance and muscle mass, and it is used by both men and women. However, there are some differences in how creatine may be utilized and its effects based on gender, which can be attributed to physiological and hormonal differences between men and women.

Men’s Health:

  1. Muscle Mass and Strength: Men typically have higher baseline muscle mass and creatine stores compared to women. Consequently, men may experience more pronounced gains in muscle mass and strength with creatine supplementation. Studies have shown that men who engage in resistance training and supplement with creatine can see significant improvements in one-repetition maximum (1RM) strength, muscle hypertrophy, and overall power output.
  2. Athletic Performance: Creatine is particularly popular among male athletes involved in high-intensity sports such as weightlifting, sprinting, and football. The ability of creatine to enhance ATP regeneration is especially beneficial for activities that require short bursts of intense energy. Men often use higher loading doses (20 grams per day for 5-7 days) followed by a maintenance dose (3-5 grams per day) to quickly saturate muscle creatine stores and maintain elevated levels.

Women’s Health:

  1. Body Composition: Women may experience different changes in body composition compared to men when using creatine. While both genders can benefit from increased lean muscle mass, women are less likely to experience significant increases in body weight due to water retention. This makes creatine a viable supplement for women looking to improve muscle definition without substantial weight gain.
  2. Hormonal Considerations: Hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle can influence how women respond to creatine supplementation. Some studies suggest that creatine may help mitigate exercise-induced muscle damage and improve recovery during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, when estrogen levels are higher. Additionally, there is evidence that creatine may enhance mood and reduce symptoms of depression in women, potentially due to its effects on brain energy metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis.
  3. Bone Health: There is emerging research suggesting that creatine supplementation, particularly when combined with resistance training, may have a positive effect on bone mineral density in postmenopausal women. This is crucial for preventing osteoporosis and maintaining bone health as estrogen levels decline with age.

Dosage and Safety:

Both men and women can safely use creatine, but the dosing regimen may vary. While the traditional loading phase followed by a maintenance dose is common, some women may prefer to start with a lower dose to assess tolerance and minimize potential water retention. A typical maintenance dose of 3-5 grams per day is generally effective and well-tolerated by both genders.

Conclusion:

While creatine offers similar benefits in terms of enhanced muscle mass, strength, and athletic performance for both men and women, the specific outcomes and considerations may differ. Men may experience more significant gains in muscle size and strength, while women may benefit from improved muscle definition, recovery, and potential bone health. Understanding these differences can help tailor creatine supplementation to optimize health and performance outcomes for each gender.

Citations:

  • Volek, J. S., & Rawson, E. S. (2004). Scientific basis and practical aspects of creatine supplementation for athletes. Nutrition, 20(7-8), 609-614.
  • Tarnopolsky, M. A. (2000). Gender differences in metabolism; nutrition and supplements. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 3(3), 287-298.

Back to table of contents


How much Creatine should I take?

The appropriate dosage of creatine can vary depending on individual goals, body weight, and specific needs. However, there are generally accepted guidelines for creatine supplementation that can help optimize its benefits while minimizing potential side effects.

Loading Phase:

For those looking to rapidly saturate their muscle creatine stores, a loading phase is often recommended. During this phase, a higher dose of creatine is consumed for a short period. The typical loading dose is:

  • 20 grams per day: This is usually divided into four 5-gram doses taken throughout the day, for a period of 5 to 7 days. This method quickly elevates muscle creatine levels, allowing users to experience the benefits sooner.

Maintenance Phase:

After the loading phase, a lower maintenance dose is taken to keep muscle creatine levels elevated. The standard maintenance dose is:

  • 3 to 5 grams per day: This amount is sufficient to maintain the increased creatine stores achieved during the loading phase. For many individuals, starting with this maintenance dose without a loading phase can also be effective, although it may take a few weeks longer to reach peak muscle creatine levels.

Alternative Dosing Strategies:

Some individuals may prefer to avoid the loading phase altogether, opting instead for a consistent daily dose. In this case:

  • 3 to 5 grams per day: This continuous dosing approach will gradually increase muscle creatine levels over several weeks without the need for an initial high-dose phase.

Special Considerations:

  1. Body Weight: Heavier individuals may require slightly higher doses to achieve the same effects. For example, those weighing over 200 pounds might consider a maintenance dose closer to the upper end of the range (5 grams per day).
  2. Gender Differences: While the general dosage recommendations apply to both men and women, women may sometimes prefer to start with a lower dose (e.g., 3 grams per day) to assess tolerance, especially if concerned about water retention.
  3. Athletic Performance vs. Health Benefits: Athletes focused on performance enhancements typically follow the loading and maintenance phases. For general health benefits, such as cognitive improvement or muscle preservation in older adults, a consistent daily dose of 3 to 5 grams is often sufficient.

Timing of Dosage:

Creatine can be taken at any time of day, but some studies suggest that taking it post-workout may enhance its uptake by muscles due to the increased blood flow and insulin sensitivity after exercise. However, the most important factor is consistency in daily intake.

Conclusion:

The optimal dosage of creatine generally involves a loading phase of 20 grams per day for 5 to 7 days, followed by a maintenance dose of 3 to 5 grams per day. For those who prefer a simpler regimen, a consistent daily dose of 3 to 5 grams can be effective over time. Always consider individual factors such as body weight and specific goals when determining the appropriate dosage.

Citations:

  • Kreider, R. B., Kalman, D. S., Antonio, J., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Wildman, R., Collins, R., ... & Lopez, H. L. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1), 1-18.
  • Rawson, E. S., & Volek, J. S. (2003). Effects of creatine supplementation and resistance training on muscle strength and weightlifting performance. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 17(4), 822-831.

Back to table of contents


What are the main side effects of Creatine?

Creatine is one of the most well-researched supplements and is generally considered safe for long-term use when taken at recommended doses. However, like any supplement, it may cause side effects in some individuals. The main side effects of creatine are typically mild and can often be managed with proper usage and hydration.

Common Side Effects:

  1. Water Retention and Weight Gain: One of the most common side effects of creatine supplementation is water retention. Creatine causes muscle cells to draw in more water, which can lead to an increase in body weight. This weight gain is primarily due to water rather than fat, but some individuals may find it uncomfortable or undesirable.
  2. Gastrointestinal Distress: Some people may experience stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhea, or nausea when taking creatine, especially during the loading phase when higher doses are consumed. To minimize these effects, it’s recommended to split the daily dose into smaller servings taken throughout the day and to take creatine with meals.
  3. Muscle Cramps: Although not common, some individuals report muscle cramps when using creatine. This may be related to the changes in muscle hydration and electrolyte balance. Ensuring adequate hydration and maintaining a balanced intake of electrolytes can help mitigate this issue.

Less Common Side Effects:

  1. Kidney Stress: There has been concern that creatine supplementation could stress the kidneys, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions. However, research has generally shown that creatine does not adversely affect kidney function in healthy individuals. Those with kidney disease or at risk should consult a healthcare professional before starting creatine supplementation.
  2. Dehydration: Due to its effect on water retention in muscle cells, creatine may increase the risk of dehydration, particularly during intense exercise or in hot climates. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated while taking creatine.
  3. Electrolyte Imbalance: Increased water retention in muscles can potentially affect electrolyte balance. Monitoring and maintaining electrolyte levels through diet or supplementation can help prevent any related issues.

Rare Side Effects:

  1. Liver Stress: Although extremely rare, there have been isolated reports of liver stress with high-dose creatine use. Regular liver function tests may be advisable for those taking high doses over extended periods, particularly if there are pre-existing liver conditions.
  2. Compartment Syndrome: This is an extremely rare condition where increased pressure within muscle compartments leads to decreased blood flow. While there is no strong evidence linking creatine to this condition, individuals who experience severe pain, swelling, or numbness in their muscles should seek medical attention.

Managing Side Effects:

  • Hydration: Drinking plenty of water is crucial to mitigate side effects such as dehydration and muscle cramps.
  • Proper Dosing: Following recommended dosing protocols, including the loading and maintenance phases, can help reduce gastrointestinal distress and other side effects.
  • Electrolyte Balance: Ensuring adequate intake of electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium) can help prevent muscle cramps and other hydration-related issues.
  • Monitoring: Regular monitoring of kidney and liver function through blood tests can be beneficial, especially for those taking high doses or with pre-existing conditions.

Conclusion:

While creatine is generally safe and effective for most people, it can cause side effects such as water retention, gastrointestinal issues, and muscle cramps. These side effects are usually mild and manageable with proper hydration, dosing, and electrolyte balance. Individuals with pre-existing kidney or liver conditions should consult a healthcare professional before starting creatine supplementation.

Citations:

  • Kreider, R. B., Kalman, D. S., Antonio, J., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Wildman, R., Collins, R., ... & Lopez, H. L. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1), 1-18.
  • Jäger, R., Purpura, M., Shao, A., Inoue, T., & Kreider, R. B. (2011). Analysis of the efficacy, safety, and regulatory status of novel forms of creatine. Amino Acids, 40(5), 1369-1383.

Back to table of contents


Who should not take Creatine?

While creatine is generally considered safe for most people, certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid creatine supplementation altogether. The decision to use creatine should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, especially for those with specific health conditions or concerns. Here are the primary groups who should not take creatine or should do so under medical supervision:

Individuals with Kidney Disease:

Creatine is metabolized in the kidneys, and there has been concern that high doses could potentially exacerbate existing kidney conditions. While research generally shows that creatine does not adversely affect kidney function in healthy individuals, those with pre-existing kidney disease or impaired renal function should avoid creatine supplementation unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider. Regular monitoring of kidney function is crucial if creatine use is deemed necessary.

Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women:

There is limited research on the safety of creatine supplementation during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant or breastfeeding women avoid creatine supplementation to eliminate any potential risks to the mother or child. Consulting a healthcare professional is essential if there is a specific need for creatine during these periods.

Individuals with Liver Disease:

Although rare, there have been isolated reports of liver stress associated with high-dose creatine use. People with pre-existing liver conditions should avoid creatine supplementation or use it only under strict medical supervision. Regular liver function tests can help monitor any potential adverse effects if creatine supplementation is considered necessary.

Children and Adolescents:

The safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in children and adolescents are not well-established. While some studies suggest potential benefits for young athletes, the long-term effects are unknown. Parents and guardians should consult a pediatrician or healthcare provider before allowing children or adolescents to take creatine supplements.

Individuals with Allergies or Sensitivities:

Some individuals may be allergic or sensitive to creatine or the ingredients used in creatine supplements. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include itching, swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing. Those with known allergies should carefully read product labels and consult with a healthcare professional if they have any concerns.

People with Gastrointestinal Disorders:

Creatine supplementation can sometimes cause gastrointestinal distress, such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, and bloating. Individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), may find that creatine exacerbates their symptoms. These individuals should start with a lower dose and gradually increase it while monitoring their response, or consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Individuals Taking Certain Medications:

Creatine may interact with certain medications, potentially altering their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. For example, creatine could potentially interact with medications that affect kidney function, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or certain antibiotics. People taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting creatine supplementation.

Conclusion:

Creatine supplementation is generally safe for most people but should be approached with caution by individuals with kidney or liver disease, pregnant or breastfeeding women, children and adolescents, those with allergies or gastrointestinal disorders, and individuals taking certain medications. Consulting a healthcare professional is essential to ensure safe and effective use of creatine, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions or concerns.

Citations:

  • Kreider, R. B., Kalman, D. S., Antonio, J., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Wildman, R., Collins, R., ... & Lopez, H. L. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1), 1-18.
  • Jäger, R., Purpura, M., Shao, A., Inoue, T., & Kreider, R. B. (2011). Analysis of the efficacy, safety, and regulatory status of novel forms of creatine. Amino Acids, 40(5), 1369-1383.

Back to table of contents


Are Creatine supplements known to interact with any medications?

Creatine supplements are generally considered safe for most people when taken as recommended, but they can interact with certain medications. These interactions may alter the efficacy of the medications or increase the risk of adverse effects. It's important to consult a healthcare professional before starting creatine supplementation, especially if you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications. Here are some key medications that may interact with creatine:

Medications Affecting Kidney Function:

  1. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can affect kidney function. Since creatine is processed by the kidneys, taking creatine along with NSAIDs may increase the risk of kidney stress or damage. Individuals using NSAIDs regularly should consult a healthcare provider before starting creatine supplementation.
  2. Diuretics: Diuretics, or "water pills," increase urine production and can lead to dehydration. Because creatine also affects water balance in the body, combining creatine with diuretics may exacerbate dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. This can potentially lead to kidney stress or other complications.
  3. ACE Inhibitors and ARBs: Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are commonly prescribed for hypertension and heart failure. These medications can affect kidney function, and combining them with creatine may increase the risk of kidney-related side effects. Close monitoring by a healthcare professional is advised.

Medications Affecting Liver Function:

  1. Hepatotoxic Drugs: Certain medications are known to have hepatotoxic (liver-damaging) effects. These include some statins (used to lower cholesterol), antifungal medications, and certain antibiotics. Since there have been isolated reports of liver stress with high-dose creatine use, combining creatine with hepatotoxic drugs may increase the risk of liver damage.

Medications Affecting Electrolyte Balance:

  1. Potassium-Sparing Diuretics: These diuretics help retain potassium in the body. Creatine supplementation can affect water and electrolyte balance, potentially leading to hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels) when combined with potassium-sparing diuretics. This can be dangerous and requires careful monitoring.

Other Medications:

  1. Antibiotics: Some antibiotics, particularly aminoglycosides (e.g., gentamicin), can have nephrotoxic (kidney-damaging) effects. Combining these antibiotics with creatine may increase the risk of kidney damage. It is important to consult a healthcare provider if you are prescribed antibiotics while using creatine.
  2. Caffeine and Stimulants: While not a medication, it's worth noting that combining high doses of creatine with large amounts of caffeine or other stimulants may increase the risk of dehydration and muscle cramps. Moderation and adequate hydration are key when using these substances together.

General Recommendations:

  • Consultation: Always consult a healthcare professional before starting creatine supplementation, especially if you are taking any medications that could interact with creatine.
  • Monitoring: Regular monitoring of kidney and liver function through blood tests may be advisable for individuals taking medications that affect these organs while using creatine.
  • Hydration: Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial, especially when taking medications that affect kidney function or electrolyte balance.

Conclusion:

While creatine is generally safe, it can interact with certain medications, potentially affecting kidney and liver function or electrolyte balance. Individuals taking NSAIDs, diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, hepatotoxic drugs, potassium-sparing diuretics, or certain antibiotics should consult a healthcare provider before starting creatine supplementation to ensure safe use and avoid adverse interactions.

Citations:

  • Kreider, R. B., Kalman, D. S., Antonio, J., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Wildman, R., Collins, R., ... & Lopez, H. L. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1), 1-18.
  • Jäger, R., Purpura, M., Shao, A., Inoue, T., & Kreider, R. B. (2011). Analysis of the efficacy, safety, and regulatory status of novel forms of creatine. Amino Acids, 40(5), 1369-1383.

Back to table of contents


What are the best sources of Creatine?

Creatine can be obtained from both dietary sources and supplements. Understanding the best sources of creatine can help individuals optimize their intake for improved athletic performance, muscle growth, and overall health. Here are the primary sources of creatine:

Dietary Sources:

  1. Red Meat: Red meat, particularly beef, is one of the richest natural sources of creatine. A 1-pound (450-gram) serving of beef can provide approximately 1-2 grams of creatine. Regular consumption of red meat can help maintain creatine stores, although the concentration is much lower than what can be achieved through supplementation.
  2. Fish: Fish, especially herring, salmon, and tuna, are excellent sources of creatine. For example, 1 pound of raw herring can contain about 3-4 grams of creatine, while the same amount of salmon or tuna provides around 1-2 grams. Including fish in the diet can contribute significantly to daily creatine intake.
  3. Pork and Poultry: Pork and poultry also contain creatine, though in smaller amounts compared to red meat and fish. For instance, 1 pound of pork contains approximately 1-2 grams of creatine, while chicken provides around 0.5 grams per pound.

Supplementation:

  1. Creatine Monohydrate: Creatine monohydrate is the most well-researched and widely used form of creatine supplement. It is highly effective at increasing muscle creatine stores and enhancing athletic performance. Creatine monohydrate is typically available in powder form and can be easily mixed with water, juice, or a protein shake.
  2. Micronized Creatine: Micronized creatine is a form of creatine monohydrate that has been processed to create smaller particles. This increases its solubility in water and may enhance absorption, reducing the likelihood of gastrointestinal discomfort. Micronized creatine is also available in powder form.
  3. Creatine Ethyl Ester: Creatine ethyl ester is a form of creatine that has been chemically modified to improve absorption and reduce the need for a loading phase. However, research on its efficacy compared to creatine monohydrate is mixed, and it may not offer significant advantages.
  4. Creatine HCl (Hydrochloride): Creatine HCl is another form of creatine designed to improve solubility and absorption. It may require a smaller dose than creatine monohydrate to achieve similar effects. Some users report fewer gastrointestinal issues with creatine HCl.
  5. Buffered Creatine: Buffered creatine, such as Kre-Alkalyn, is a form of creatine that is pH-buffered to reduce the breakdown of creatine in the stomach. This may improve its stability and absorption, but more research is needed to confirm its advantages over creatine monohydrate.
  6. Creatine Blends: Some supplements combine multiple forms of creatine or include additional ingredients like carbohydrates, amino acids, or electrolytes to enhance creatine uptake and performance benefits. These blends can be convenient but may come at a higher cost.

Considerations:

  • Bioavailability: While dietary sources of creatine can contribute to overall intake, the concentration is relatively low compared to supplements. For individuals seeking to maximize their creatine stores for performance or therapeutic purposes, supplementation is often more effective.
  • Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarians and vegans may have lower baseline creatine levels due to the absence of creatine-rich animal products in their diet. Creatine supplementation can be particularly beneficial for these individuals to enhance muscle creatine stores.
  • Quality and Purity: When choosing a creatine supplement, look for products that are tested for purity and quality to ensure they are free from contaminants and accurately labeled.

Conclusion:

The best sources of creatine include both dietary sources like red meat, fish, and pork, as well as various forms of creatine supplements such as creatine monohydrate, micronized creatine, and creatine HCl. While dietary sources can contribute to creatine intake, supplementation is often more effective for achieving optimal creatine levels, particularly for individuals with higher performance or health goals.

Citations:

  • Kreider, R. B., Kalman, D. S., Antonio, J., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Wildman, R., Collins, R., ... & Lopez, H. L. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1), 1-18.
  • Rawson, E. S., & Volek, J. S. (2003). Effects of creatine supplementation and resistance training on muscle strength and weightlifting performance. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 17(4), 822-831.

Back to table of contents


What forms does Creatine come in?

Creatine supplements are available in various forms, each with its unique properties, absorption rates, and potential benefits. Understanding the different forms of creatine can help individuals choose the best option for their specific needs and preferences. Here are the primary forms of creatine available on the market:

Creatine Monohydrate:

Creatine monohydrate is the most well-researched and widely used form of creatine. It consists of a creatine molecule bound to a water molecule, making it highly effective at increasing muscle creatine stores. Creatine monohydrate is known for its excellent safety profile and efficacy in enhancing athletic performance, muscle mass, and strength. It is typically available in powder form, which can be easily mixed with water, juice, or a protein shake.

Micronized Creatine:

Micronized creatine is a form of creatine monohydrate that has been processed to create smaller particles. This increases its solubility in water and may enhance absorption, reducing the likelihood of gastrointestinal discomfort. Micronized creatine is also available in powder form and is known for its ease of mixing and lower risk of clumping.

Creatine Ethyl Ester:

Creatine ethyl ester (CEE) is a form of creatine that has been chemically modified by attaching an ester group to the creatine molecule. This modification is intended to improve creatine's absorption and reduce the need for a loading phase. However, research on the efficacy of creatine ethyl ester compared to creatine monohydrate is mixed, and it may not offer significant advantages.

Creatine HCl (Hydrochloride):

Creatine hydrochloride (HCl) is a form of creatine designed to improve solubility and absorption. It is created by binding a creatine molecule with hydrochloric acid, resulting in a compound that is more soluble in water. Creatine HCl may require a smaller dose than creatine monohydrate to achieve similar effects. Some users report fewer gastrointestinal issues with creatine HCl.

Buffered Creatine:

Buffered creatine, such as Kre-Alkalyn, is a form of creatine that is pH-buffered to reduce the breakdown of creatine in the stomach. This buffering process aims to improve the stability and absorption of creatine. Buffered creatine is marketed as being gentler on the stomach, but more research is needed to confirm its advantages over creatine monohydrate.

Creatine Nitrate:

Creatine nitrate is a form of creatine bonded with a nitrate molecule. This combination is intended to enhance creatine's solubility and provide additional benefits related to nitrate's role in improving blood flow and muscle oxygenation. Creatine nitrate is available in powder and capsule forms.

Creatine Magnesium Chelate:

Creatine magnesium chelate is a form of creatine bonded with magnesium. This combination is designed to improve creatine's absorption and provide the added benefits of magnesium, such as enhanced muscle relaxation and recovery. It is available in powder and capsule forms.

Liquid Creatine:

Liquid creatine is a form of creatine that is pre-dissolved in a liquid solution. While convenient, liquid creatine has been shown to be less stable than powdered forms, leading to a shorter shelf life and reduced efficacy. As a result, liquid creatine is generally not recommended over more stable forms like creatine monohydrate.

Creatine Blends:

Creatine blends combine multiple forms of creatine or include additional ingredients like carbohydrates, amino acids, or electrolytes to enhance creatine uptake and performance benefits. These blends can be convenient but may come at a higher cost. They are available in powder and capsule forms.

Conclusion:

Creatine supplements come in various forms, each with unique properties and potential benefits. The most popular and well-researched form is creatine monohydrate, known for its safety and efficacy. Other forms, such as micronized creatine, creatine hydrochloride, and buffered creatine, offer alternative options with potential advantages in solubility and absorption. When choosing a creatine supplement, consider factors such as efficacy, ease of use, and individual tolerance to find the best option for your needs.

Citations:

  • Kreider, R. B., Kalman, D. S., Antonio, J., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Wildman, R., Collins, R., ... & Lopez, H. L. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1), 1-18.
  • Jäger, R., Purpura, M., Shao, A., Inoue, T., & Kreider, R. B. (2011). Analysis of the efficacy, safety, and regulatory status of novel forms of creatine. Amino Acids, 40(5), 1369-1383.

Back to table of contents


Which sub-compounds of Creatine, if any, are critical to the efficacy of Creatine?

Creatine itself is a single molecule, but its efficacy can be influenced by its chemical form and the presence of other compounds that enhance its absorption or stability. Here’s a closer look at some critical sub-compounds and forms of creatine that may impact its effectiveness:

Creatine Monohydrate:

Creatine monohydrate is the most studied and widely used form of creatine. It consists of a creatine molecule bound to a water molecule. This form is highly effective at increasing muscle creatine stores, enhancing athletic performance, and promoting muscle growth. The efficacy of creatine monohydrate is well-documented, and it serves as the gold standard against which other forms are often compared.

Micronized Creatine:

Micronized creatine is a form of creatine monohydrate that has been processed to create smaller particles. This increases its solubility in water and may enhance absorption, reducing the likelihood of gastrointestinal discomfort. The smaller particle size does not alter the creatine molecule itself but improves its usability and effectiveness.

Creatine Ethyl Ester:

Creatine ethyl ester (CEE) is creatine monohydrate that has been chemically modified by attaching an ester group to the creatine molecule. This modification is intended to improve creatine's absorption and reduce the need for a loading phase. However, research has produced mixed results regarding its efficacy compared to creatine monohydrate. Some studies suggest that CEE may not offer significant advantages and may even be less effective.

Creatine HCl (Hydrochloride):

Creatine hydrochloride (HCl) is creatine bonded with hydrochloric acid, resulting in a compound that is more soluble in water. This increased solubility can enhance creatine's absorption and potentially reduce the dose required to achieve similar effects as creatine monohydrate. Creatine HCl is known for causing fewer gastrointestinal issues in some users.

Buffered Creatine:

Buffered creatine, such as Kre-Alkalyn, is creatine monohydrate that has been pH-buffered to reduce the breakdown of creatine in the stomach. The buffering process aims to improve the stability and absorption of creatine. While marketed as being gentler on the stomach, more research is needed to confirm its advantages over creatine monohydrate.

Creatine Nitrate:

Creatine nitrate is creatine bonded with a nitrate molecule. This combination is designed to enhance creatine's solubility and provide additional benefits related to nitrate's role in improving blood flow and muscle oxygenation. The efficacy of creatine nitrate in comparison to creatine monohydrate is still being studied, but it may offer unique benefits for certain users.

Creatine Magnesium Chelate:

Creatine magnesium chelate is creatine bonded with magnesium. This combination aims to improve creatine's absorption and provide the added benefits of magnesium, such as enhanced muscle relaxation and recovery. The efficacy of this form is still under investigation, but it may offer additional advantages for muscle function and recovery.

Creatine Blends:

Creatine blends combine multiple forms of creatine or include additional ingredients like carbohydrates, amino acids, or electrolytes to enhance creatine uptake and performance benefits. These blends can be convenient and may offer synergistic effects, but they often come at a higher cost.

Conclusion:

The efficacy of creatine is primarily determined by its chemical form and the presence of sub-compounds that enhance its absorption or stability. Creatine monohydrate remains the most effective and well-researched form, with proven benefits for muscle growth, performance, and recovery. Other forms, such as micronized creatine, creatine hydrochloride, and buffered creatine, offer potential advantages in solubility and absorption. Understanding these sub-compounds can help individuals choose the most effective form of creatine for their specific needs.

Citations:

  • Kreider, R. B., Kalman, D. S., Antonio, J., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Wildman, R., Collins, R., ... & Lopez, H. L. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1), 1-18.
  • Jäger, R., Purpura, M., Shao, A., Inoue, T., & Kreider, R. B. (2011). Analysis of the efficacy, safety, and regulatory status of novel forms of creatine. Amino Acids, 40(5), 1369-1383.

Back to table of contents


What is Creatine also known as?

Creatine is widely recognized and referred to by several names, abbreviations, and chemical compounds. Here are some of the most common terms and variations associated with creatine:

Common Names and Abbreviations:

  • Creatine: The most widely used term.
  • Cr: A common abbreviation used in scientific literature and among athletes.
  • Creatine Monohydrate: The most popular form of creatine supplement, often abbreviated as CrM.
  • Creatine HCl: Short for creatine hydrochloride, another form of creatine.
  • CEE: Abbreviation for creatine ethyl ester.
  • Buffered Creatine: Another term referring to pH-buffered creatine, such as Kre-Alkalyn.
  • Micronized Creatine: Refers to creatine monohydrate that has been processed into smaller particles for better solubility.

Chemical Compounds and Ingredients:

  • Methyl guanidine-acetic acid: The chemical name for creatine.
  • Creatine Phosphate: Also known as phosphocreatine, this is the form in which creatine is stored in muscles.
  • Creatine Ethyl Ester (CEE): A form of creatine with an ester group attached, intended to improve absorption.
  • Creatine Hydrochloride (HCl): A form of creatine bonded with hydrochloric acid for better solubility.
  • Creatine Nitrate: A form of creatine bonded with a nitrate molecule, aimed at improving blood flow and muscle oxygenation.
  • Creatine Magnesium Chelate: Creatine bonded with magnesium to enhance absorption and muscle relaxation.

Common Misspellings and Variations:

  • Creatin: A common misspelling of creatine.
  • Cretine: Another frequent misspelling.
  • Creatinine: Often confused with creatine, creatinine is actually a breakdown product of creatine phosphate in muscle, and is excreted in urine.
  • Kreatin: A misspelling influenced by the German spelling of creatine (Kreatin).

Brand Names:

  • Kre-Alkalyn: A brand name for buffered creatine.
  • Con-Cret: A brand name for creatine hydrochloride (HCl).
  • Creatine MagnaPower: A brand name for creatine magnesium chelate.
  • Creapure: A brand name for a high-purity form of creatine monohydrate, manufactured using a specific process to ensure purity and quality.

Other Ingredients and Compounds Found in Creatine Supplements:

  • Dextrose: Sometimes included in creatine supplements to enhance absorption by increasing insulin levels.
  • Taurine: An amino acid often added to creatine supplements for additional performance benefits.
  • Beta-Alanine: Another common addition to creatine supplements, aimed at reducing muscle fatigue and enhancing performance.
  • Electrolytes: Such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium, included to support hydration and muscle function.

Conclusion:

Creatine is known by various names, abbreviations, and chemical compounds, each referring to different forms or aspects of this widely used supplement. Common terms include creatine monohydrate, creatine HCl, and creatine ethyl ester, while abbreviations like Cr and CrM are frequently used in scientific and athletic communities. Understanding these different names and compounds can help individuals make informed choices about their creatine supplementation.

Citations:

  • Kreider, R. B., Kalman, D. S., Antonio, J., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Wildman, R., Collins, R., ... & Lopez, H. L. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1), 1-18.
  • Jäger, R., Purpura, M., Shao, A., Inoue, T., & Kreider, R. B. (2011). Analysis of the efficacy, safety, and regulatory status of novel forms of creatine. Amino Acids, 40(5), 1369-1383.

Back to table of contents


What is important to look for on the label of a Creatine supplement to ensure product quality?

When selecting a creatine supplement, it is essential to ensure that the product is of high quality, safe, and effective. Here are key factors to look for on the label to ensure you are purchasing a reputable creatine supplement:

Type and Form of Creatine:

  1. Creatine Monohydrate: Look for creatine monohydrate, as it is the most researched and proven form of creatine. It is known for its efficacy in enhancing athletic performance and muscle growth.
  2. Micronized Creatine: If you have experienced gastrointestinal discomfort with regular creatine monohydrate, consider micronized creatine, which has smaller particles for better solubility and absorption.

Purity and Quality:

  1. Creapure®: This is a high-purity form of creatine monohydrate manufactured using a specific process in Germany. Products labeled with Creapure® are often considered top quality and free from impurities.
  2. No Additives or Fillers: Check that the product contains pure creatine without unnecessary additives, fillers, or artificial ingredients. Pure creatine monohydrate should be the only ingredient listed.

Certifications and Testing:

  1. Third-Party Testing: Look for supplements that have been tested by independent third-party organizations, such as NSF International, Informed-Sport, or USP (United States Pharmacopeia). These certifications ensure the product has been tested for purity, potency, and absence of banned substances.
  2. cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices): Ensure the product is manufactured in a facility that follows cGMP guidelines. This certification indicates that the manufacturer adheres to high standards of quality control and safety.

Dosage and Serving Size:

  1. Proper Dosage Information: The label should clearly state the recommended dosage, typically 3-5 grams per serving for maintenance. If it includes a loading phase, it should recommend 20 grams per day, divided into 4 doses, for the first 5-7 days.
  2. Scoop Included: Ensure the product comes with a scoop for accurate measurement of each serving.

Solubility and Flavor:

  1. Solubility: Micronized creatine or creatine HCl may be preferable if you are looking for better solubility. These forms dissolve more easily in liquids, reducing the chances of gastrointestinal discomfort.
  2. Flavor: Creatine monohydrate is typically flavorless and can be mixed with any beverage without altering the taste. If the product is flavored, ensure it does not contain artificial flavors or excessive sweeteners.

Product Reviews and Brand Reputation:

  1. Customer Reviews: Read customer reviews to gauge the effectiveness and quality of the product. Look for feedback on how well the creatine dissolves, any side effects experienced, and overall satisfaction.
  2. Reputable Brands: Choose products from well-known and reputable brands with a history of producing high-quality supplements. Brands that invest in research and transparency are more likely to provide reliable products.

Conclusion:

To ensure you are purchasing a high-quality creatine supplement, look for products that specify creatine monohydrate or micronized creatine, verify purity through third-party testing and certifications, and check for proper dosage information. Additionally, consider the solubility, flavor, customer reviews, and brand reputation. By paying attention to these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose a creatine supplement that is safe, effective, and meets your needs.

Citations:

  • Kreider, R. B., Kalman, D. S., Antonio, J., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Wildman, R., Collins, R., ... & Lopez, H. L. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1), 1-18.
  • Jäger, R., Purpura, M., Shao, A., Inoue, T., & Kreider, R. B. (2011). Analysis of the efficacy, safety, and regulatory status of novel forms of creatine. Amino Acids, 40(5), 1369-1383.

Back to table of contents


Disclaimer & References

The information provided on this website, including any text, images, or other material contained within, is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. This page was created by the SuppCo editiorial team, with AI summarization tools, including data from but not limited to following studies:

  1. F. L. Pazini, M. Cunha, A. Rodrigues (2019). The possible beneficial effects of creatine for the management of depression. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, 89, 193-206. Link: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.08.029
  2. B. Kious, D. Kondo, P. Renshaw (2019). Creatine for the Treatment of Depression. Biomolecules, 9, . Link: 10.3390/biom9090406
  3. S. Roitman, T. Green, Y. Osher, N. Karni, J. Levine (2007). Creatine monohydrate in resistant depression: a preliminary study.. Bipolar disorders, 9 7,
    754-8 . Link: 10.1111/J.1399-5618.2007.00532.X
  4. Patricia J. Allen, J. Debold, M. Rios, R. Kanarek (2015). Chronic high-dose creatine has opposing effects on depression-related gene expression and behavior in intact and sex hormone-treated gonadectomized male and female rats. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior, 130, 22-33. Link: 10.1016/j.pbb.2014.12.014
  5. T. Hellem, Y. Sung, Xianfeng Shi, M. Pett, Gwen Latendresse, J. Morgan, R. Huber, Danielle Kuykendall, Kelly Lundberg, P. Renshaw (2015). Creatine as a Novel Treatment for Depression in Females Using Methamphetamine: A Pilot Study. Journal of Dual Diagnosis, 11, 189 - 202. Link: 10.1080/15504263.2015.1100471
  6. R. A. Toniolo, F. Fernandes, M. Silva, R. Dias, B. Lafer (2017). Cognitive effects of creatine monohydrate adjunctive therapy in patients with bipolar depression: Results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.. Journal of affective disorders, 224,
    69-75 . Link: 10.1016/j.jad.2016.11.029
  7. A. Bakian, R. Huber, Lindsay Scholl, P. Renshaw, D. Kondo (2020). Dietary creatine intake and depression risk among U.S. adults. Translational Psychiatry, 10, . Link: 10.1038/s41398-020-0741-x
  8. Patricia J. Allen, K. D'Anci, R. Kanarek, P. Renshaw (2012). Sex-specific antidepressant effects of dietary creatine with and without sub-acute fluoxetine in rats. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior, 101, 588-601. Link: 10.1016/j.pbb.2012.03.005
  9. Sujung Yoon, Jieun E. Kim, Jaeuk Hwang, Tae-Suk Kim, H. Kang, E. Namgung, Soonhyun Ban, Subin Oh, Jeong-Nam Yang, P. Renshaw, I. Lyoo (2016). Effects of Creatine Monohydrate Augmentation on Brain Metabolic and Network Outcome Measures in Women With Major Depressive Disorder. Biological Psychiatry, 80, 439-447. Link: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2015.11.027
  10. I. Lyoo, Sujung Yoon, Tae-Suk Kim, Jaeuk Hwang, Jieun E. Kim, Wangyoun Won, Sujin Bae, P. Renshaw (2012). A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial of oral creatine monohydrate augmentation for enhanced response to a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor in women with major depressive disorder.. The American journal of psychiatry, 169 9,
    937-945 . Link: 10.1176/appi.ajp.2012.12010009
  11. Sam R. Moore, A. Gordon, Hannah E. Cabre, A. Hackney, A. Smith‐Ryan (2023). A Randomized Controlled Trial of Changes in Fluid Distribution across Menstrual Phases with Creatine Supplementation. Nutrients, 15, . Link: 10.3390/nu15020429
  12. C. Easton, S. Turner, Y. Pitsiladis (2007). Creatine and glycerol hyperhydration in trained subjects before exercise in the heat.. International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism, 17 1,
    70-91 . Link: 10.1123/IJSNEM.17.1.70
  13. M. Powers, B. Arnold, A. Weltman, D. Perrin, D. Mistry, D. Kahler, W. Kraemer, J. Volek (2003). Creatine Supplementation Increases Total Body Water Without Altering Fluid Distribution.. Journal of athletic training, 38 1,
    44-50 . Link:
  14. J. Zanelli, B. Cordeiro, B. T. S. Beserra, E. B. S. M. Trindade (2015). Creatine and resistance training: effect on hydration and lean body mass. Revista Brasileira De Medicina Do Esporte, 21, 27-31. Link: 10.1590/1517-86922015210101932
  15. L. Beis, T. Polyviou, D. Malkova, Y. Pitsiladis (2011). The effects of creatine and glycerol hyperhydration on running economy in well trained endurance runners. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 8, 24 - 24. Link: 10.1186/1550-2783-8-24
  16. L. Brilla, M. Giroux, A. Taylor, K. Knutzen (2003). Magnesium-creatine supplementation effects on body water.. Metabolism: clinical and experimental, 52 9,
    1136-40 . Link: 10.1016/S0026-0495(03)00188-4
  17. R. Deminice, F. Rosa, K. Pfrimer, E. Ferrioli, A. Jordão, E. Freitas (2015). Creatine Supplementation Increases Total Body Water in Soccer Players: a Deuterium Oxide Dilution Study. International Journal of Sports Medicine, 37, 149 - 153. Link: 10.1055/s-0035-1559690
  18. A. Ribeiro, A. Avelar, Witalo Kassiano, J. Nunes, B. Schoenfeld, A. Aguiar, M. Trindade, A. Silva, L. Sardinha, E. Cyrino (2020). Creatine Supplementation Does Not Influence the Ratio Between Intracellular Water and Skeletal Muscle Mass in Resistance-Trained Men.. International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism, ,
    1-7 . Link: 10.1123/ijsnem.2020-0080
  19. R. Lopez, D. Casa, Brendon P. McDermott, M. Ganio, L. Armstrong, C. Maresh (2009). Does creatine supplementation hinder exercise heat tolerance or hydration status? A systematic review with meta-analyses.. Journal of athletic training, 44 2,
    215-23 . Link: 10.4085/1062-6050-44.2.215
  20. R. Vogel, M. Webster, L. D. Erdmann, R. D. Clark (2000). Creatine Supplementation: Effect on Supramaximal Exercise Performance at Two Levels of Acute Hypohydration. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 14, 214–219. Link: 10.1519/1533-4287(2000)014<0214:CSEOSE>2.0.CO;2
  21. Rodney J. Snow, Michael J McKenna, Steve E Selig, Justin G. Kemp, Christos G Stathis, S. Zhao (1998). Effect of creatine supplementation on sprint exercise performance and muscle metabolism.. Journal of applied physiology, 84 5,
    1667-73 . Link: 10.1152/JAPPL.1998.84.5.1667
  22. A. Askow, Kevin J M Paulussen, Colleen F. McKenna, A. Salvador, Susannah E. Scaroni, Jade S Hamann, A. Ulanov, Zhong Li, S. Paluska, Kayleigh M Beaudry, M. De Lisio, N. Burd (2022). Creatine Monohydrate Supplementation, but not Creatyl-L-Leucine, Increased Muscle Creatine Content in Healthy Young Adults: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial.. International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism, ,
    1-7 . Link: 10.1123/ijsnem.2022-0074
  23. R. Harris, K. Söderlund, E. Hultman (1992). Elevation of creatine in resting and exercised muscle of normal subjects by creatine supplementation.. Clinical science, 83 3,
    367-74 . Link: 10.1042/CS0830367
  24. Mike B Spillane, R. Schoch, Mathew Cooke, T. Harvey, M. Greenwood, R. Kreider, D. Willoughby (2009). The effects of creatine ethyl ester supplementation combined with heavy resistance training on body composition, muscle performance, and serum and muscle creatine levels. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 6, 6 - 6. Link: 10.1186/1550-2783-6-6
  25. L. V. van Loon, A. Oosterlaar, F. Hartgens, M. Hesselink, R. Snow, A. Wagenmakers (2003). Effects of creatine loading and prolonged creatine supplementation on body composition, fuel selection, sprint and endurance performance in humans.. Clinical science, 104 2,
    153-62 . Link: 10.1042/CS20020159
  26. E. Hultman, K. Söderlund, J. Timmons, G. Cederblad, P. Greenhaff (1996). Muscle creatine loading in men.. Journal of applied physiology, 81 1,
    232-7 . Link: 10.1152/JAPPL.1996.81.1.232
  27. TW Demant, E. Rhodes (1999). Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Exercise Performance. Sports Medicine, 28, 49-60. Link: 10.2165/00007256-199928010-00005
  28. M. Powers, B. Arnold, A. Weltman, D. Perrin, D. Mistry, D. Kahler, W. Kraemer, J. Volek (2003). Creatine Supplementation Increases Total Body Water Without Altering Fluid Distribution.. Journal of athletic training, 38 1,
    44-50 . Link:
  29. L. V. van Loon, R. Murphy, A. Oosterlaar, D. Cameron-Smith, M. Hargreaves, A. Wagenmakers, R. Snow (2004). Creatine supplementation increases glycogen storage but not GLUT-4 expression in human skeletal muscle.. Clinical science, 106 1,
    99-106 . Link: 10.1042/CS20030116
  30. B. Eijnde, Birgitte Ursø, Erik A. Richter, P. Greenhaff, Peter Hespel (2001). Effect of oral creatine supplementation on human muscle GLUT4 protein content after immobilization.. Diabetes, 50 1,
    18-23 . Link: 10.2337/DIABETES.50.1.18
  31. S. Forbes, Dean M. Cordingley, S. Cornish, B. Gualano, H. Roschel, S. Ostojić, E. Rawson, B. Roy, K. Prokopidis, P. Giannos, D. Candow (2022). Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Brain Function and Health. Nutrients, 14, . Link: 10.3390/nu14050921
  32. K. Prokopidis, P. Giannos, K. Triantafyllidis, K. Kechagias, S. Forbes, D. Candow (2022). Effects of creatine supplementation on memory in healthy individuals: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Nutrition Reviews, 81, 416 - 427. Link: 10.1093/nutrit/nuac064
  33. Airi Watanabe, N. Kato, Tadafumi Kato (2002). Effects of creatine on mental fatigue and cerebral hemoglobin oxygenation. Neuroscience Research, 42, 279-285. Link: 10.1016/S0168-0102(02)00007-X
  34. M. Balestrino, E. Adriano (2019). Beyond sports: Efficacy and safety of creatine supplementation in pathological or paraphysiological conditions of brain and muscle. Medicinal Research Reviews, 39, 2427 - 2459. Link: 10.1002/med.21590
  35. J. Van Cutsem, B. Roelands, Bert Pluym, Bruno Tassigno, J. Verschueren, K. De Pauw, R. Meeusen (2019). Can Creatine Combat the Mental Fatigue-associated Decrease in Visuomotor Skills?. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, , . Link: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000002122
  36. K. Avgerinos, N. Spyrou, Konstantinos I. Bougioukas, D. Kapogiannis (2018). Effects of creatine supplementation on cognitive function of healthy individuals: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Experimental Gerontology, 108, 166-173. Link: 10.1016/j.exger.2018.04.013
  37. E. Dolan, B. Gualano, E. Rawson (2018). Beyond muscle: the effects of creatine supplementation on brain creatine, cognitive processing, and traumatic brain injury. European Journal of Sport Science, 19, 1 - 14. Link: 10.1080/17461391.2018.1500644
  38. H. Roschel, B. Gualano, Sergej M Ostojic, Eric S Rawson (2021). Creatine Supplementation and Brain Health. Nutrients, 13, . Link: 10.3390/nu13020586
  39. T. McMorris, Roger Harris, J. Swain, Jo Corbett, K. Collard, Rosemary J. Dyson, L. Dye, Christopher I. Hodgson, Nick Draper (2006). Effect of creatine supplementation and sleep deprivation, with mild exercise, on cognitive and psychomotor performance, mood state, and plasma concentrations of catecholamines and cortisol. Psychopharmacology, 185, 93-103. Link: 10.1007/s00213-005-0269-z
  40. Clare E. Turner, W. Byblow, N. Gant (2015). Creatine Supplementation Enhances Corticomotor Excitability and Cognitive Performance during Oxygen Deprivation. The Journal of Neuroscience, 35, 1773 - 1780. Link: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.3113-14.2015
  41. Jeffrey R Stout, J. Eckerson, T. Housh, K. Ebersole (1999). The Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Anaerobic Working Capacity. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 13, 135-138. Link: 10.1519/1533-4287(1999)013<0135:TEOCSO>2.0.CO;2
  42. K. Kendall, Abbie E. Smith, J. Graef, D. Fukuda, J. Moon, T. Beck, J. Cramer, Jeffrey R Stout (2009). Effects of Four Weeks of High-Intensity Interval Training and Creatine Supplementation on Critical Power and Anaerobic Working Capacity in College-Aged Men. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 23, 1663-1669. Link: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181b1fd1f
  43. Joseph F. Clark (1997). Creatine and phosphocreatine: a review of their use in exercise and sport.. Journal of athletic training, 32 1,
    45-51 . Link:
  44. K. Hamilton, M. Meyers, W. Skelly, R. J. Marley (2000). Oral creatine supplementation and upper extremity anaerobic response in females.. International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism, 10 3,
    277-89 . Link: 10.1123/IJSNEM.10.3.277
  45. S. Koçak, U. Karli (2003). Effects of high dose oral creatine supplementation on anaerobic capacity of elite wrestlers.. The Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness, 43 4,
    488-92 . Link:
  46. J. Eckerson, Anthony A Bull, G. Moore (2008). Effect of Thirty Days of Creatine Supplementation with Phosphate Salts on Anaerobic Working Capacity and Body Weight in Men. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 22, 826-832. Link: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e31816a40ad
  47. R. A. D. de Poli, Luan Henrique Roncada, E. S. Malta, G. Artioli, R. Bertuzzi, A. Zagatto (2019). Creatine Supplementation Improves Phosphagen Energy Pathway During Supramaximal Effort, but Does Not Improve Anaerobic Capacity or Performance. Frontiers in Physiology, 10, . Link: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00352
  48. J. Chwalbińska-Moneta (2003). Effect of creatine supplementation on aerobic performance and anaerobic capacity in elite rowers in the course of endurance training.. International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism, 13 2,
    173-83 . Link: 10.1123/IJSNEM.13.2.173
  49. J. Eckerson, Jeffrey R Stout, G. Moore, N. Stone, K. Iwan, Amy N. Gebauer, R. Ginsberg (2005). EFFECT OF CREATINE PHOSPHATE SUPPLEMENTATION ON ANAEROBIC WORKING CAPACITY AND BODY WEIGHT AFTER TWO AND SIX DAYS OF LOADING IN MEN AND WOMEN. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 19, 756–763. Link: 10.1519/R-16924.1
  50. D. Fukuda, Abbie E. Smith, K. Kendall, Teddi R. Dwyer, C. Kerksick, T. Beck, J. Cramer, Jeffrey R Stout (2010). The Effects of Creatine Loading and Gender on Anaerobic Running Capacity. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 24, 1826-1833. Link: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181e06d0e
  51. D. Lobo, Aline C. C. Tritto, Luana Rafaela Liarte da Silva, P. Oliveira, F. Benatti, H. Roschel, B. Niess, B. Gualano, R. Pereira (2015). Effects of long-term low-dose dietary creatine supplementation in older women. Experimental Gerontology, 70, 97-104. Link: 10.1016/j.exger.2015.07.012
  52. P. Chilibeck, Murray J. Chrusch, Karen E. Chad, K. S. Davison, D. Burke (2005). Creatine monohydrate and resistance training increase bone mineral content and density in older men.. The journal of nutrition, health & aging, 9 5,
    352-3 . Link:
  53. S. Forbes, P. Chilibeck, D. Candow (2018). Creatine Supplementation During Resistance Training Does Not Lead to Greater Bone Mineral Density in Older Humans: A Brief Meta-Analysis. Frontiers in Nutrition, 5, . Link: 10.3389/fnut.2018.00027
  54. L. Sales, A. Pinto, Samara Ferrari Rodrigues, J. C. Alvarenga, N. Gonçalves, M. Sampaio-Barros, F. Benatti, B. Gualano, R. R. Rodrigues Pereira (2020). Creatine supplementation (3 g/day) and bone health in older women: a 2-year, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.. The journals of gerontology. Series A, Biological sciences and medical sciences, , . Link: 10.1093/gerona/glz162
  55. P. Chilibeck, D. Candow, Tim Landeryou, M. Kaviani, Lisa Paus-Jenssen (2015). Effects of Creatine and Resistance Training on Bone Health in Postmenopausal Women.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 47 8,
    1587-95 . Link: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000000571
  56. D. Candow, S. Forbes, E. Vogt (2019). Effect of pre-exercise and post-exercise creatine supplementation on bone mineral content and density in healthy aging adults. Experimental Gerontology, 119, 89-92. Link: 10.1016/j.exger.2019.01.025
  57. Igor H. Murai, H. Roschel, L. Pabis, L. Takayama, R. B. D. Oliveira, R. B. D. Oliveira, R. T. D. S. Pereira, W. Dantas, R. R. Pereira, Vanda Jorgetti, R. Ballester, Bruno Gualano (2015). Exercise training, creatine supplementation, and bone health in ovariectomized rats. Osteoporosis International, 26, 1395-1404. Link: 10.1007/s00198-014-3017-6
  58. A. Antolic, B. Roy, M. Tarnopolsky, R. Zernicke, G. Wohl, S. Shaughnessy, J. Bourgeois (2007). Creatine monohydrate increases bone mineral density in young Sprague-Dawley rats.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 39 5,
    816-20 . Link: 10.1249/MSS.0B013E318031FAC4
  59. Christiano R. R. Alves, Igor H. Murai, P. Ramona, H. Nicastro, Lilian Takayama, F. Guimarães, A. L. Lancha Junior, M. Irigoyen, R. Pereira, B. Gualano (2012). Influence of creatine supplementation on bone mass of spontaneously hypertensive rats.. Revista brasileira de reumatologia, 52 3,
    453-61 . Link: 10.1590/S0482-50042012000300015
  60. D. Candow, P. Chilibeck, Julianne J Gordon, E. Vogt, Tim Landeryou, M. Kaviani, Lisa Paus-Jensen (2020). Effect of 12 months of creatine supplementation and whole-body resistance training on measures of bone, muscle and strength in older males. Nutrition and Health, 27, 151 - 159. Link: 10.1177/0260106020975247
  61. M. Wyss, R. Kaddurah-Daouk (2000). Creatine and creatinine metabolism.. Physiological reviews, 80 3,
    1107-213 . Link: 10.1152/PHYSREV.2000.80.3.1107
  62. Kurt A Pline, Curtis L. Smith (2005). The Effect of Creatine Intake on Renal Function. Annals of Pharmacotherapy, 39, 1093 - 1096. Link: 10.1345/APH.1E628
  63. Alexandre de Souza E Silva, A. Pertille, Carolina Gabriela Reis Barbosa, Jasiele Aparecida de Oliveira Silva, Diego Vilela de Jesus, Anna Gabriela Silva Vilela Ribeiro, Ronaldo Júlio Baganha, J. J. de Oliveira (2019). Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Renal Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.. Journal of renal nutrition : the official journal of the Council on Renal Nutrition of the National Kidney Foundation, , . Link: 10.1053/j.jrn.2019.05.004
  64. Sasa Mihic, J. Macdonald, S. McKenzie, M. Tarnopolsky (2000). Acute creatine loading increases fat-free mass, but does not affect blood pressure, plasma creatinine, or CK activity in men and women.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 32 2,
    291-6 . Link: 10.1097/00005768-200002000-00007
  65. TW Demant, E. Rhodes (1999). Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Exercise Performance. Sports Medicine, 28, 49-60. Link: 10.2165/00007256-199928010-00005
  66. B. Gualano, C. Ugrinowitsch, Rafael B. Novaes, G. Artioli, M. Shimizu, A. Seguro, R. Harris, A. H. Lancha (2008). Effects of creatine supplementation on renal function: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 103, 33-40. Link: 10.1007/s00421-007-0669-3
  67. Tristan M. Robinson, D. Sewell, A. Casey, G. Steenge, P. Greenhaff (2000). Dietary creatine supplementation does not affect some haematological indices, or indices of muscle damage and hepatic and renal function. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 34, 284 - 288. Link: 10.1136/bjsm.34.4.284
  68. M. Powers, B. Arnold, A. Weltman, D. Perrin, D. Mistry, D. Kahler, W. Kraemer, J. Volek (2003). Creatine Supplementation Increases Total Body Water Without Altering Fluid Distribution.. Journal of athletic training, 38 1,
    44-50 . Link:
  69. D. Mayhew, J. Mayhew, J. S. Ware (2002). Effects of long-term creatine supplementation on liver and kidney functions in American college football players.. International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism, 12 4,
    453-60 . Link: 10.1123/IJSNEM.12.4.453
  70. Nawras A. ALWAN, Eman Aboud AL-MASOUDI, Alia M. KUDAYER (2022). IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF CREATINE ON MANY PHYSIOLOGICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL SCALES IN MALE RABBITS. MINAR International Journal of Applied Sciences and Technology, , . Link: 10.47832/2717-8234.12.21
  71. Magali Louis, J. Lebacq, J. Poortmans, M. Belpaire‐Dethiou, J. Devogelaer, P. van Hecke, F. Goubel, M. Francaux (2003). Beneficial effects of creatine supplementation in dystrophic patients. Muscle & Nerve, 27, . Link: 10.1002/mus.10355
  72. A. Passaquin, Mathilde Renard, L. Kay, Corinne Challet, Armand Mokhtarian, T. Wallimann, U. Ruegg (2002). Creatine supplementation reduces skeletal muscle degeneration and enhances mitochondrial function in mdx mice. Neuromuscular Disorders, 12, 174-182. Link: 10.1016/S0960-8966(01)00273-5
  73. Victor Augusto Ramos Fernandes (2023). Nuclear morphometry and stereological analysis of gastrocnemius and pectoralis major muscle tissue from MDX mice supplemented or not with creatine for sixteen weeks. Journal of Clinical and Medical Images, Case Reports, , . Link: 10.55920/2771-019x/1428
  74. Bidisha Banerjee, U. Sharma, K. Balasubramanian, M. Kalaivani, V. Kalra, N. Jagannathan (2010). Effect of creatine monohydrate in improving cellular energetics and muscle strength in ambulatory Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients: a randomized, placebo-controlled 31P MRS study.. Magnetic resonance imaging, 28 5,
    698-707 . Link: 10.1016/j.mri.2010.03.008
  75. C. Bellissimo, L. J. Delfinis, M. C. Hughes, P. Turnbull, S. Gandhi, S. N. DiBenedetto, F. Rahman, P. Tadi, Christina A Amaral, A. Dehghani, J. Cobley, J. Quadrilatero, U. Schlattner, Christopher GR Perry (2023). Mitochondrial creatine sensitivity is lost in the D2.mdx model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy and rescued by the mitochondrial-enhancing compound Olesoxime.. American journal of physiology. Cell physiology, , . Link: 10.1152/ajpcell.00377.2022
  76. O. Elrashidy (2015). P158 – 2247: Functional benefits of creatine monohydrate supplementation on Duchenne muscular dystrophy. European Journal of Paediatric Neurology, 19, . Link: 10.1016/S1090-3798(15)30471-2
  77. M. Tarnopolsky, D. Mahoney, J. Vajsar, C. Rodriguez, T. Doherty, B. Roy, D. Biggar (2004). Creatine monohydrate enhances strength and body composition in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Neurology, 62, 1771 - 1777. Link: 10.1212/01.WNL.0000125178.18862.9D
  78. D. Escolar, G. Buyse, E. Henricson, R. Leshner, J. Florence, J. Mayhew, C. Tesi‐Rocha, K. Gorni, L. Pasquali, K. Patel, R. McCarter, Jennifer Huang, T. Mayhew, T. Bertorini, J. Carlo, A. Connolly, P. Clemens, N. Goemans, S. Iannaccone, M. Igarashi, Y. Nevo, A. Pestronk, S. Subramony, V. Vedanarayanan, H. Wessel (2005). CINRG randomized controlled trial of creatine and glutamine in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Annals of Neurology, 58, . Link: 10.1002/ana.20523
  79. S. Felber, D. Skladal, M. Wyss, C. Kremser, A. Koller, W. Sperl (2000). Oral creatine supplementation in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: A clinical and 31 P magnetic resonance spectroscopy study. Neurological Research, 22, 145 - 150. Link: 10.1080/01616412.2000.11741051
  80. M. Walter, Hanns Lochmüller, P. Reilich, T. Klopstock, R. Huber, M. Hartard, M. Hennig, D. Pongratz, W. Müller-Felber (2000). Creatine monohydrate in muscular dystrophies: A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study. Neurology, 54, 1848 - 1850. Link: 10.1212/WNL.54.9.1848
  81. E. Rahimi, M. Moghadasi, M. N. Mahani, A. Torkfar, A. Yadolazadeh (2012). Central and peripheral fatigue factors after an exhaustive aerobic exercise following creatine supplementation.. Annals of Biological Research, 3, 4209-4214. Link:
  82. Carlos Rodrigo Soares Freitas Sampaio, F. Aidar, A. P. Ferreira, J. L. Santos, A. C. Marçal, D. Matos, R. F. Souza, O. C. Moreira, Ialuska Guerra, J. Fernandes Filho, L. Marcucci-Barbosa, Albená Nunes-Silva, P. Almeida-Neto, Breno G. Cabral, V. Reis (2020). Can Creatine Supplementation Interfere with Muscle Strength and Fatigue in Brazilian National Level Paralympic Powerlifting?. Nutrients, 12, . Link: 10.3390/nu12092492
  83. E. Rawson, Michael J Stec, Sara J. Frederickson, M. Miles (2011). Low-dose creatine supplementation enhances fatigue resistance in the absence of weight gain.. Nutrition, 27 4,
    451-5 . Link: 10.1016/j.nut.2010.04.001
  84. Airi Watanabe, N. Kato, Tadafumi Kato (2002). Effects of creatine on mental fatigue and cerebral hemoglobin oxygenation. Neuroscience Research, 42, 279-285. Link: 10.1016/S0168-0102(02)00007-X
  85. Jeffrey R Stout, B. Sue Graves, J. Cramer, E. Goldstein, P. Costa, A. E. Smith, A. A. Walter (2007). Effects of creatine supplementation on the onset of neuromuscular fatigue threshold and muscle strength in elderly men and women (64 - 86 years).. The journal of nutrition, health & aging, 11 6,
    459-64 . Link:
  86. Sinwook Lee, Gyuseog Hong, W. Park, Jaeseong Lee, Nahyun Kim, Hyejoon Park, Jonghoon Park (2020). The effect of short-term creatine intake on blood lactic acid and muscle fatigue measured by accelerometer-based tremor response to acute resistance exercise.. Physical activity and nutrition, 24 1,
    29-36 . Link: 10.20463/pan.2020.0006
  87. Jeffrey R Stout, J. Cramer, M. Mielke, J. O'kroy, D. Torok, R. Zoeller (2006). EFFECTS OF TWENTY‐EIGHT DAYS OF BETA‐ALANINE AND CREATINE MONOHYDRATE SUPPLEMENTATION ON THE PHYSICAL WORKING CAPACITY AT NEUROMUSCULAR FATIGUE THRESHOLD. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 20, 928–931. Link: 10.1519/R-19655.1
  88. Z. Torok, Raquel B. Busekrus, D. Hydock (2020). Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Muscle Fatigue in Rats Receiving Doxorubicin Treatment. Nutrition and Cancer, 72, 252 - 259. Link: 10.1080/01635581.2019.1623900
  89. Jeffrey R Stout, J. Eckerson, K. Ebersole, G. Moore, S. Perry, T. Housh, Anthony A Bull, Joel Cramer, Ash Batheja (2000). Effect of creatine loading on neuromuscular fatigue threshold.. Journal of applied physiology, 88 1,
    109-12 . Link: 10.1152/JAPPL.2000.88.1.109
  90. J. Slankamenac, Marijana Ranisavljev, N. Todorovic, J. Ostojic, V. Štajer, Sergej M. Ostojic (2023). Effects of six‐month creatine supplementation on patient‐ and clinician‐reported outcomes, and tissue creatine levels in patients with post‐COVID‐19 fatigue syndrome. Food Science & Nutrition, 11, 6899 - 6906. Link: 10.1002/fsn3.3597
  91. A. Oskroba, Mateusz Pawlina, A. Orzechowska, K. Ziętara, Natalia Pawełczak, Karolina Raksa, Bartłomiej Zielonka, I. Kowalczyk, Piotr Pawłowski, Cezary Stawikowski (2023). Therapeutic effects of creatine supplementation in patients with type II diabetes. Journal of Education, Health and Sport, , . Link: 10.12775/jehs.2023.16.01.008
  92. Meline Gomes Gonçalves, Matheus Anselmo Medeiros, Licyanne Ingrid Carvalho de Lemos, Lucia de Fãtima Campos Pedrosa, Pedro Paulo de Andrade Santos, B. J. Abreu, J. P. M. Lima (2022). Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Histopathological and Biochemical Parameters in the Kidney and Pancreas of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats. Nutrients, 14, . Link: 10.3390/nu14030431
  93. L. V. van Loon, R. Murphy, A. Oosterlaar, D. Cameron-Smith, M. Hargreaves, A. Wagenmakers, R. Snow (2004). Creatine supplementation increases glycogen storage but not GLUT-4 expression in human skeletal muscle.. Clinical science, 106 1,
    99-106 . Link: 10.1042/CS20030116
  94. W. Derave, B. O. Eijnde, P. Verbessem, M. Ramaekers, M. van Leemputte, E. Richter, P. Hespel (2003). Combined creatine and protein supplementation in conjunction with resistance training promotes muscle GLUT-4 content and glucose tolerance in humans.. Journal of applied physiology, 94 5,
    1910-6 . Link: 10.1152/JAPPLPHYSIOL.00977.2002
  95. H. Parsa, Morteza Zareie (2022). Effect of training and creatine supplementation interaction on insulin resistance and glucose tolerance in obese male rats. Journal of Sport and Exercise Physiology, , . Link: 10.52547/joeppa.15.1.83
  96. Jackie E N Newman, M. Hargreaves, A. Garnham, R. Snow (2003). Effect of creatine ingestion on glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in men.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 35 1,
    69-74 . Link: 10.1097/00005768-200301000-00012
  97. K. Rooney, J. Bryson, J. Phuyal, G. Denyer, I. Caterson, C. Thompson (2002). Creatine supplementation alters insulin secretion and glucose homeostasis in vivo.. Metabolism: clinical and experimental, 51 4,
    518-22 . Link: 10.1053/META.2002.31330
  98. R. Ceddia, G. Sweeney (2004). Creatine supplementation increases glucose oxidation and AMPK phosphorylation and reduces lactate production in L6 rat skeletal muscle cells. The Journal of Physiology, 555, . Link: 10.1113/jphysiol.2003.056291
  99. M. Solis, G. Artioli, B. Gualano (2021). Potential of Creatine in Glucose Management and Diabetes. Nutrients, 13, . Link: 10.3390/nu13020570
  100. B. Gualano, Vitor DE Salles Painneli, H. Roschel, G. Artioli, M. Neves, A. L. de Sá Pinto, M. E. R. da Silva, M. Cunha, M. Otaduy, C. Leite, J. Ferreira, R. Pereira, P. Brum, E. Bonfa, A. Lancha (2011). Creatine in type 2 diabetes: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 43 5,
    770-8 . Link: 10.1249/MSS.0b013e3181fcee7d
  101. L. V. van Loon, R. Murphy, A. Oosterlaar, D. Cameron-Smith, M. Hargreaves, A. Wagenmakers, R. Snow (2004). Creatine supplementation increases glycogen storage but not GLUT-4 expression in human skeletal muscle.. Clinical science, 106 1,
    99-106 . Link: 10.1042/CS20030116
  102. W. Derave, B. O. Eijnde, P. Verbessem, M. Ramaekers, M. van Leemputte, E. Richter, P. Hespel (2003). Combined creatine and protein supplementation in conjunction with resistance training promotes muscle GLUT-4 content and glucose tolerance in humans.. Journal of applied physiology, 94 5,
    1910-6 . Link: 10.1152/JAPPLPHYSIOL.00977.2002
  103. H. Roschel, B. Gualano, M. Marquezi, António Costa, A. Lancha (2010). Creatine supplementation spares muscle glycogen during high intensity intermittent exercise in rats. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 7, 6 - 6. Link: 10.1186/1550-2783-7-6
  104. D. Sewell, Tristan M. Robinson, P. Greenhaff (2008). Creatine supplementation does not affect human skeletal muscle glycogen content in the absence of prior exercise.. Journal of applied physiology, 104 2,
    508-12 . Link: 10.1152/JAPPLPHYSIOL.00787.2007
  105. R. Ceddia, G. Sweeney (2004). Creatine supplementation increases glucose oxidation and AMPK phosphorylation and reduces lactate production in L6 rat skeletal muscle cells. The Journal of Physiology, 555, . Link: 10.1113/jphysiol.2003.056291
  106. P. Roberts, J. Fox, N. Peirce, Simon W. Jones, A. Casey, P. Greenhaff (2016). Creatine ingestion augments dietary carbohydrate mediated muscle glycogen supercompensation during the initial 24 h of recovery following prolonged exhaustive exercise in humans. Amino Acids, 48, 1831 - 1842. Link: 10.1007/s00726-016-2252-x
  107. B. Eijnde, Birgitte Ursø, Erik A. Richter, P. Greenhaff, Peter Hespel (2001). Effect of oral creatine supplementation on human muscle GLUT4 protein content after immobilization.. Diabetes, 50 1,
    18-23 . Link: 10.2337/DIABETES.50.1.18
  108. Arnold G. Nelson, D. Arnall, J. Kokkonen, R. Day, J. Evans (2001). Muscle glycogen supercompensation is enhanced by prior creatine supplementation.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 33 7,
    1096-100 . Link: 10.1097/00005768-200107000-00005
  109. B. Eijnde, Erik A. Richter, J. Henquin, B. Kiens, Peter Hespel (2001). Effect of creatine supplementation on creatine and glycogen content in rat skeletal muscle.. Acta physiologica Scandinavica, 171 2,
    169-76 . Link: 10.1046/J.1365-201X.2001.00786.X
  110. Jiawen Xu, T. Xing, Jiaolong Li, Lin Zhang, F. Gao (2022). Dietary creatine nitrate enhances muscle creatine loading and delays postmortem glycolysis of broilers that experienced preslaughter transport.. Journal of animal science, , . Link: 10.1093/jas/skac277
  111. S. Forbes, D. Candow, S. Ostojić, M. Roberts, P. Chilibeck (2021). Meta-Analysis Examining the Importance of Creatine Ingestion Strategies on Lean Tissue Mass and Strength in Older Adults. Nutrients, 13, . Link: 10.3390/nu13061912
  112. J. David Branch (2003). Effect of creatine supplementation on body composition and performance: a meta-analysis.. International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism, 13 2,
    198-226 . Link: 10.1123/IJSNEM.13.2.198
  113. E. Jówko, P. Ostaszewski, M. Jank, J. Sacharuk, A. Zieniewicz, J. Wilczak, S. Nissen (2001). Creatine and beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) additively increase lean body mass and muscle strength during a weight-training program.. Nutrition, 17 7-8,
    558-66 . Link:
  114. Sasa Mihic, J. Macdonald, S. McKenzie, M. Tarnopolsky (2000). Acute creatine loading increases fat-free mass, but does not affect blood pressure, plasma creatinine, or CK activity in men and women.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 32 2,
    291-6 . Link: 10.1097/00005768-200002000-00007
  115. Frederico S. C. Franco, N. M. Costa, S. A. Ferreira, M. A. Carneiro-Júnior, A. Natali (2011). The effects of a high dosage of creatine and caffeine supplementation on the lean body mass composition of rats submitted to vertical jumping training. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 8, 3 - 3. Link: 10.1186/1550-2783-8-3
  116. S. Forbes, D. Candow, J. Krentz, M. Roberts, Kaelin C. Young (2019). Changes in Fat Mass Following Creatine Supplementation and Resistance Training in Adults ≥50 Years of Age: A Meta-Analysis. Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology, 4, . Link: 10.3390/jfmk4030062
  117. D. Burke, P. Chilibeck, G. Parise, D. Candow, D. Mahoney, M. Tarnopolsky (2003). Effect of creatine and weight training on muscle creatine and performance in vegetarians.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 35 11,
    1946-55 . Link: 10.1249/01.MSS.0000093614.17517.79
  118. M. Evans, N. Guthrie, J. Pezzullo, T. Sanli, R. Fielding, A. Bellamine (2017). Efficacy of a novel formulation of L-Carnitine, creatine, and leucine on lean body mass and functional muscle strength in healthy older adults: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study. Nutrition & Metabolism, 14, . Link: 10.1186/s12986-016-0158-y
  119. Paul J Cribb, Andrew D. Williams, Christos G Stathis, M. Carey, A. Hayes (2003). Effects of whey isolate, creatine, and resistance training on muscle hypertrophy.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 39 2,
    298-307 . Link: 10.1249/01.MSS.0000247002.32589.EF
  120. R. Rahimi (2011). Creatine Supplementation Decreases Oxidative DNA Damage and Lipid Peroxidation Induced by a Single Bout of Resistance Exercise. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 25, 3448-3455. Link: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e3182162f2b
  121. C. Sironi, F. Bodega, L. Zocchi, C. Porta (2019). Effects of Creatine Treatment on Jejunal Phenotypes in a Rat Model of Acidosis. Antioxidants, 8, . Link: 10.3390/antiox8070225
  122. J. Kolling, A. Wyse (2010). Creatine prevents the inhibition of energy metabolism and lipid peroxidation in rats subjected to GAA administration. Metabolic Brain Disease, 25, 331-338. Link: 10.1007/s11011-010-9215-9
  123. J. Lawler, W. Barnes, G. Wu, Wook Song, S. Demaree (2002). Direct antioxidant properties of creatine.. Biochemical and biophysical research communications, 290 1,
    47-52 . Link: 10.1006/BBRC.2001.6164
  124. M. Araújo, L. P. Moura, R. Dalia, Carla Ribeiro, F. Voltarelli, M. A. R. Mello (2010). Oxidative Stress In The Liver of Exercised Rats Supplemented With Creatine. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 42, 792-792. Link: 10.1249/01.MSS.0000386450.39901.66
  125. Xiaofei Wang, Xujun Zhu, Yanjiao Li, Yingsen Liu, Jiaolong Li, F. Gao, Guang-hong Zhou, L. Zhang (2015). Effect of dietary creatine monohydrate supplementation on muscle lipid peroxidation and antioxidant capacity of transported broilers in summer.. Poultry science, 94 11,
    2797-804 . Link: 10.3382/ps/pev255
  126. B. Mirzaei, F. Rahmani-nia, Z. Salehi, R. Rahimi (2013). EFFECTS OF CREATINE MONOHYDRATE SUPPLEMENTATION ON OXIDATIVE DNA DAMAGE AND LIPID PEROXIDATION INDUCED BY ACUTE INCREMENTAL EXERCISE TO EXHAUSTION IN WRESTLERS. Kinesiology: international journal of fundamental and applied kinesiology, 45, 30-40. Link:
  127. R. Deminice, A. Jordão (2016). Creatine supplementation decreases plasma lipid peroxidation markers and enhances anaerobic performance in rats. Redox Report, 21, 31 - 36. Link: 10.1179/1351000215Y.0000000020
  128. R. Deminice, G. Portari, H. Vannucchi, A. Jordão (2008). Effects of creatine supplementation on homocysteine levels and lipid peroxidation in rats. British Journal of Nutrition, 102, 110 - 116. Link: 10.1017/S0007114508162985
  129. M. Kingsley, D. Cunningham, L. Mason, L. Kilduff, J. McEneny (2009). Role of creatine supplementation on exercise-induced cardiovascular function and oxidative stress. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2, 247 - 254. Link: 10.4161/oxim.2.4.9415
  130. T. Klopstock, V. Querner, F. Schmidt, F. Gekeler, M. Walter, M. Hartard, M. H. Dipl-Stat, T. Gasser, D. Pongratz, A. Straube, Marianne Dieterich, W. Müller-Felber (2000). A placebo-controlled crossover trial of creatine in mitochondrial diseases. Neurology, 55, 1748–1751. Link: 10.1212/WNL.55.11.1748
  131. Kiyomi Komura, E. Hobbiebrunken, E. Wilichowski, F. Hanefeld (2003). Effectiveness of creatine monohydrate in mitochondrial encephalomyopathies.. Pediatric neurology, 28 1,
    53-8 . Link: 10.1016/S0887-8994(02)00469-1
  132. M. C. Rodriguez, J. Macdonald, D. Mahoney, G. Parise, M. Beal, M. Tarnopolsky (2007). Beneficial effects of creatine, CoQ10, and lipoic acid in mitochondrial disorders. Muscle & Nerve, 35, . Link: 10.1002/mus.20688
  133. M. Tarnopolsky, B. Roy, J. Macdonald (1997). A randomized, controlled trial of creatine monohydrate in patients with mitochondrial cytopathies. Muscle & Nerve, 20, . Link: 10.1002/(SICI)1097-4598(199712)20:12<1502::AID-MUS4>3.0.CO;2-C
  134. M. Tarnopolsky (2008). The mitochondrial cocktail: rationale for combined nutraceutical therapy in mitochondrial cytopathies.. Advanced drug delivery reviews, 60 13-14,
    1561-7 . Link: 10.1016/j.addr.2008.05.001
  135. P. Klivényi, R. Ferrante, R. T. Matthews, M. Bogdanov, A. Klein, O. Andreassen, Gerald Mueller, M. Wermer, R. Kaddurah-Daouk, M. Beal (1999). Neuroprotective effects of creatine in a transgenic animal model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Nature Medicine, 5, 347-350. Link: 10.1038/6568
  136. B. Barbiroli, P. Montagna, P. Martinelli, R. Lodi, S. Iotti, P. Cortelli, Rosanna Funicello, P. Zaniol (1993). Defective Brain Energy Metabolism Shown by in vivo 31P MR Spectroscopy in 28 Patients with Mitochondrial Cytopathies. Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism, 13, 469 - 474. Link: 10.1038/jcbfm.1993.61
  137. Jared Pearlman, R. Fielding (2006). Creatine monohydrate as a therapeutic aid in muscular dystrophy.. Nutrition reviews, 64 2 Pt 1,
    80-8 . Link: 10.1111/J.1753-4887.2006.TB00191.X
  138. O. Andreassen, A. Dedeoglu, R. Ferrante, B. Jenkins, K. Ferrante, M. Thomas, A. Friedlich, S. Browne, G. Schilling, D. Borchelt, S. Hersch, C. Ross, M. Beal (2001). Creatine increase survival and delays motor symptoms in a transgenic animal model of Huntington's disease.. Neurobiology of disease, 8 3,
    479-91 . Link:
  139. Magali Louis, J. Lebacq, J. Poortmans, M. Belpaire‐Dethiou, J. Devogelaer, P. van Hecke, F. Goubel, M. Francaux (2003). Beneficial effects of creatine supplementation in dystrophic patients. Muscle & Nerve, 27, . Link: 10.1002/mus.10355
  140. M. Tarnopolsky, D. Mahoney, J. Vajsar, C. Rodriguez, T. Doherty, B. Roy, D. Biggar (2004). Creatine monohydrate enhances strength and body composition in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Neurology, 62, 1771 - 1777. Link: 10.1212/01.WNL.0000125178.18862.9D
  141. M. Walter, P. Reilich, Hanns Lochmüller, R. Kohnen, B. Schlotter, H. Hautmann, Elmar Dunkl, D. Pongratz, W. Müller-Felber (2002). Creatine monohydrate in myotonic dystrophy: a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study.. Journal of neurology, 249 12,
    1717-22 . Link:
  142. S. Felber, D. Skladal, M. Wyss, C. Kremser, A. Koller, W. Sperl (2000). Oral creatine supplementation in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: A clinical and 31 P magnetic resonance spectroscopy study. Neurological Research, 22, 145 - 150. Link: 10.1080/01616412.2000.11741051
  143. Jared Pearlman, R. Fielding (2006). Creatine monohydrate as a therapeutic aid in muscular dystrophy.. Nutrition reviews, 64 2 Pt 1,
    80-8 . Link: 10.1111/J.1753-4887.2006.TB00191.X
  144. M. Balestrino, E. Adriano (2019). Beyond sports: Efficacy and safety of creatine supplementation in pathological or paraphysiological conditions of brain and muscle. Medicinal Research Reviews, 39, 2427 - 2459. Link: 10.1002/med.21590
  145. R. Kley, M. Tarnopolsky, M. Vorgerd (2011). Creatine for treating muscle disorders.. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 2,
    CD004760 . Link: 10.1002/14651858.CD004760.pub3
  146. R. Kley, M. Vorgerd, M. Tarnopolsky (2007). Creatine for treating muscle disorders.. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 1,
    CD004760 . Link: 10.1002/14651858.cd004760.pub2
  147. M. Walter, Hanns Lochmüller, P. Reilich, T. Klopstock, R. Huber, M. Hartard, M. Hennig, D. Pongratz, W. Müller-Felber (2000). Creatine monohydrate in muscular dystrophies: A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study. Neurology, 54, 1848 - 1850. Link: 10.1212/WNL.54.9.1848
  148. D. Falk, K. Heelan, J. Thyfault, A. Koch (2003). Effects of Effervescent Creatine, Ribose, and Glutamine Supplementation on Muscular Strength, Muscular Endurance, and Body Composition. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 17, 810–816. Link: 10.1519/1533-4287(2003)017<0810:EOECRA>2.0.CO;2
  149. Jeffrey R Stout, B. Sue Graves, J. Cramer, E. Goldstein, P. Costa, A. E. Smith, A. A. Walter (2007). Effects of creatine supplementation on the onset of neuromuscular fatigue threshold and muscle strength in elderly men and women (64 - 86 years).. The journal of nutrition, health & aging, 11 6,
    459-64 . Link:
  150. L. V. van Loon, A. Oosterlaar, F. Hartgens, M. Hesselink, R. Snow, A. Wagenmakers (2003). Effects of creatine loading and prolonged creatine supplementation on body composition, fuel selection, sprint and endurance performance in humans.. Clinical science, 104 2,
    153-62 . Link: 10.1042/CS20020159
  151. M. Izquierdo, J. Ibáñez, J. González-Badillo, E. Gorostiaga (2002). Effects of creatine supplementation on muscle power, endurance, and sprint performance.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 34 2,
    332-43 . Link: 10.1097/00005768-200202000-00023
  152. Scott Mills, D. Candow, S. Forbes, J. Neary, M. Ormsbee, J. Antonio (2020). Effects of Creatine Supplementation during Resistance Training Sessions in Physically Active Young Adults. Nutrients, 12, . Link: 10.3390/nu12061880
  153. Itamar P Vieira, Amanda G de Paula, P. Gentil, C. Pichard, D. Candow, G. Pimentel (2020). Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Lower-Limb Muscle Endurance Following an Acute Bout of Aerobic Exercise in Young Men. Sports, 8, . Link: 10.3390/sports8020012
  154. T. Herda, T. Beck, E. Ryan, Abbie E. Smith, A. A. Walter, M. Hartman, Jeffrey R Stout, J. Cramer (2009). Effects of Creatine Monohydrate and Polyethylene Glycosylated Creatine Supplementation on Muscular Strength, Endurance, and Power Output. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 23, 818-826. Link: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181a2ed11
  155. Murray J. Chrusch, P. Chilibeck, K. Chad, K. Davison, D. Burke (2001). Creatine supplementation combined with resistance training in older men.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 33 12,
    2111-7 . Link: 10.1097/00005768-200112000-00021
  156. J. Chami, D. Candow (2018). Effect of Creatine Supplementation Dosing Strategies on Aging Muscle Performance. The journal of nutrition, health & aging, 23, 281-285. Link: 10.1007/s12603-018-1148-8
  157. Aaron Stares, M. Bains (2020). The Additive Effects of Creatine Supplementation and Exercise Training in an Aging Population: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy, 43, 112 - 99. Link: 10.1519/JPT.0000000000000222
  158. R. Kreider, J. Stout (2021). Creatine in Health and Disease. Nutrients, 13, . Link: 10.3390/nu13020447
  159. Kleiner Márcio de Andrade Nemezio, R. Bertuzzi, C. Correia-Oliveira, B. Gualano, D. Bishop, A. Lima-Silva (2015). Effect of Creatine Loading on Oxygen Uptake during a 1-km Cycling Time Trial.. Journal is not defined within the JOURNAL database., , . Link: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000000718
  160. Jes S Rico-Sanz, Maria Teresa Mendez Marco (2000). Creatine enhances oxygen uptake and performance during alternating intensity exercise.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 32 2,
    379-85 . Link: 10.1097/00005768-200002000-00018
  161. A. Jones, H. Carter, J. S. Pringle, I. Campbell (2002). Effect of creatine supplementation on oxygen uptake kinetics during submaximal cycle exercise.. Journal of applied physiology, 92 6,
    2571-7 . Link: 10.1152/JAPPLPHYSIOL.01065.2001
  162. C. Thompson, G. Kemp, A. Sanderson, R. Dixon, P. Styles, D. Taylor, G. Radda (1996). Effect of creatine on aerobic and anaerobic metabolism in skeletal muscle in swimmers.. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 30, 222 - 225. Link: 10.1136/bjsm.30.3.222
  163. P. Balsom, B. Ekblom, K. Söerlund, B. Sjödln, E. Hultman (1993). Creatine supplementation and dynamic high‐intensity intermittent exercise. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 3, . Link: 10.1111/j.1600-0838.1993.tb00378.x
  164. Cory L. Butts, H. Adamus, D. Keller, P. McDonough (2013). The effects of creatine loading on oxygen uptake kinetics during heavy exercise. The FASEB Journal, 27, . Link: 10.1096/fasebj.27.1_supplement.718.1
  165. James P. Finn, T. Ebert, Robert T. Withers, Michael F. Carey, M. Mackay, J. Phillips, M. Febbraio (2001). Effect of creatine supplementation on metabolism and performance in humans during intermittent sprint cycling. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 84, 238-243. Link: 10.1007/s004210170011
  166. Clare E. Turner, W. Byblow, N. Gant (2015). Creatine Supplementation Enhances Corticomotor Excitability and Cognitive Performance during Oxygen Deprivation. The Journal of Neuroscience, 35, 1773 - 1780. Link: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.3113-14.2015
  167. M. A. Stroud, Dawn Holliman, D. Bell, A. L. Green, I. Macdonald, P. Greenhaff (1994). Effect of oral creatine supplementation on respiratory gas exchange and blood lactate accumulation during steady-state incremental treadmill exercise and recovery in man.. Clinical science, 87 6,
    707-10 . Link: 10.1042/CS0870707
  168. M. Izquierdo, J. Ibáñez, J. González-Badillo, E. Gorostiaga (2002). Effects of creatine supplementation on muscle power, endurance, and sprint performance.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 34 2,
    332-43 . Link: 10.1097/00005768-200202000-00023
  169. G. Bogdanis, M. Nevill, George Aphamis, P. Stavrinou, D. Jenkins, C. Giannaki, H. Lakomy, Clyde Williams (2022). Effects of Oral Creatine Supplementation on Power Output during Repeated Treadmill Sprinting. Nutrients, 14, . Link: 10.3390/nu14061140
  170. M. Glaister, Lauren Rhodes (2022). Short-Term Creatine Supplementation and Repeated Sprint Ability-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.. International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism, ,
    1-10 . Link: 10.1123/ijsnem.2022-0072
  171. T. Ruden (1996). Effects of oral creatine supplementation on performance and muscle metabolism during maximal exercise. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 28, 81. Link: 10.1097/00005768-199605001-00484
  172. D. Burke, Shawn Silver, L. E. Holt, T. Smith-Palmer, Christopher J. Culligan, P. Chilibeck (2000). The effect of continuous low dose creatine supplementation on force, power, and total work.. International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism, 10 3,
    235-44 . Link: 10.1123/IJSNEM.10.3.235
  173. C. Griffen, D. Rogerson, M. Ranchordas, A. Ruddock (2015). Effects of Creatine and Sodium Bicarbonate Coingestion on Multiple Indices of Mechanical Power Output During Repeated Wingate Tests in Trained Men.. International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism, 25 3,
    298-306 . Link: 10.1123/ijsnem.2014-0146
  174. Aquiles Yáñez-Silva, C. F. Buzzachera, I. Piçarro, R. S. Januário, L. H. Ferreira, S. McAnulty, A. Utter, Tácito P. Souza-Junior (2017). Effect of low dose, short-term creatine supplementation on muscle power output in elite youth soccer players. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14, . Link: 10.1186/s12970-017-0162-2
  175. W. Cooke, P. Grandjean, W. Barnes (1995). Effect of oral creatine supplementation on power output and fatigue during bicycle ergometry.. Journal of applied physiology, 78 2,
    670-3 . Link: 10.1152/JAPPL.1995.78.2.670
  176. L. Odland, J. MacDougall, M A Tarnopolsky, A. Elorriaga, Anne Borgmann (1997). Effect of oral creatine supplementation on muscle [PCr] and short-term maximum power output.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 29 2,
    216-9 . Link: 10.1097/00005768-199702000-00008
  177. T. Herda, T. Beck, E. Ryan, Abbie E. Smith, A. A. Walter, M. Hartman, Jeffrey R Stout, J. Cramer (2009). Effects of Creatine Monohydrate and Polyethylene Glycosylated Creatine Supplementation on Muscular Strength, Endurance, and Power Output. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 23, 818-826. Link: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181a2ed11
  178. M. Romdhani, N. Souissi, I. Moussa-Chamari, Yassine Chaabouni, K. Mahdouani, Z. Sahnoun, T. Driss, K. Chamari, O. Hammouda (2021). Caffeine Use or Napping to Enhance Repeated Sprint Performance After Partial Sleep Deprivation: Why Not Both?. International journal of sports physiology and performance, ,
    1-8 . Link: 10.1123/ijspp.2019-0792
  179. Denise C. Bernier, R. Bartha, S. Devarajan, F. Macmaster, Matthias H. Schmidt, B. Rusak (2009). Effects of overnight sleep restriction on brain chemistry and mood in women with unipolar depression and healthy controls.. Journal of psychiatry & neuroscience : JPN, 34 5,
    352-60 . Link:
  180. M. Balestrino, E. Adriano (2019). Beyond sports: Efficacy and safety of creatine supplementation in pathological or paraphysiological conditions of brain and muscle. Medicinal Research Reviews, 39, 2427 - 2459. Link: 10.1002/med.21590
  181. E. Rawson, H. Lieberman, Talia M. Walsh, S. M. Zuber, Jaclyn M. Harhart, Tracy C. Matthews (2008). Creatine supplementation does not improve cognitive function in young adults. Physiology & Behavior, 95, 130-134. Link: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2008.05.009
  182. T. McMorris, Roger Harris, J. Swain, Jo Corbett, K. Collard, Rosemary J. Dyson, L. Dye, Christopher I. Hodgson, Nick Draper (2006). Effect of creatine supplementation and sleep deprivation, with mild exercise, on cognitive and psychomotor performance, mood state, and plasma concentrations of catecholamines and cortisol. Psychopharmacology, 185, 93-103. Link: 10.1007/s00213-005-0269-z
  183. C. Cook, B. Crewther, L. Kilduff, S. Drawer, C. M. Gaviglio (2011). Skill execution and sleep deprivation: effects of acute caffeine or creatine supplementation - a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 8, 2 - 2. Link: 10.1186/1550-2783-8-2
  184. T. McMorris, Roger Harris, Alan Norman Howard, G. Langridge, Benjamin Hall, Jo Corbett, Matt Dicks, Christopher I. Hodgson (2007). Creatine supplementation, sleep deprivation, cortisol, melatonin and behavior. Physiology & Behavior, 90, 21-28. Link: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2006.08.024
  185. S. Forbes, Dean M. Cordingley, S. Cornish, B. Gualano, H. Roschel, S. Ostojić, E. Rawson, B. Roy, K. Prokopidis, P. Giannos, D. Candow (2022). Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Brain Function and Health. Nutrients, 14, . Link: 10.3390/nu14050921
  186. M. Dworak, Tae Kim, R. McCarley, R. Basheer (2017). Creatine supplementation reduces sleep need and homeostatic sleep pressure in rats. Journal of Sleep Research, 26, . Link: 10.1111/jsr.12523
  187. M. Skein, R. Duffield, G. Minett, A. Snape, A. Murphy (2013). The effect of overnight sleep deprivation after competitive rugby league matches on postmatch physiological and perceptual recovery.. International journal of sports physiology and performance, 8 5,
    556-64 . Link: 10.1123/IJSPP.8.5.556
  188. Tristan M. Robinson, D. Sewell, A. Casey, G. Steenge, P. Greenhaff (2000). Dietary creatine supplementation does not affect some haematological indices, or indices of muscle damage and hepatic and renal function. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 34, 284 - 288. Link: 10.1136/bjsm.34.4.284
  189. R. Kreider, J. Stout (2021). Creatine in Health and Disease. Nutrients, 13, . Link: 10.3390/nu13020447
  190. M. Balestrino, E. Adriano (2019). Beyond sports: Efficacy and safety of creatine supplementation in pathological or paraphysiological conditions of brain and muscle. Medicinal Research Reviews, 39, 2427 - 2459. Link: 10.1002/med.21590
  191. Aaron Stares, M. Bains (2020). The Additive Effects of Creatine Supplementation and Exercise Training in an Aging Population: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy, 43, 112 - 99. Link: 10.1519/JPT.0000000000000222
  192. H. Roschel, B. Gualano, Sergej M Ostojic, Eric S Rawson (2021). Creatine Supplementation and Brain Health. Nutrients, 13, . Link: 10.3390/nu13020586
  193. K. Norman, D. Stübler, P. Baier, T. Schütz, K. Ocran, E. Holm, H. Lochs, M. Pirlich (2006). Effects of creatine supplementation on nutritional status, muscle function and quality of life in patients with colorectal cancer--a double blind randomised controlled trial.. Clinical nutrition, 25 4,
    596-605 . Link: 10.1016/J.CLNU.2006.01.014
  194. Alexandre de Souza E Silva, A. Pertille, Carolina Gabriela Reis Barbosa, Jasiele Aparecida de Oliveira Silva, Diego Vilela de Jesus, Anna Gabriela Silva Vilela Ribeiro, Ronaldo Júlio Baganha, J. J. de Oliveira (2019). Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Renal Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.. Journal of renal nutrition : the official journal of the Council on Renal Nutrition of the National Kidney Foundation, , . Link: 10.1053/j.jrn.2019.05.004
  195. K. Avgerinos, N. Spyrou, Konstantinos I. Bougioukas, D. Kapogiannis (2018). Effects of creatine supplementation on cognitive function of healthy individuals: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Experimental Gerontology, 108, 166-173. Link: 10.1016/j.exger.2018.04.013
  196. Sasa Mihic, J. Macdonald, S. McKenzie, M. Tarnopolsky (2000). Acute creatine loading increases fat-free mass, but does not affect blood pressure, plasma creatinine, or CK activity in men and women.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 32 2,
    291-6 . Link: 10.1097/00005768-200002000-00007
  197. S. Forbes, Dean M. Cordingley, S. Cornish, B. Gualano, H. Roschel, S. Ostojić, E. Rawson, B. Roy, K. Prokopidis, P. Giannos, D. Candow (2022). Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Brain Function and Health. Nutrients, 14, . Link: 10.3390/nu14050921
  198. J. Volek, N. Ratamess, M. R. Rubin, A. Gómez, D. French, M. McGuigan, T. Scheett, M. Sharman, K. Häkkinen, W. Kraemer (2004). The effects of creatine supplementation on muscular performance and body composition responses to short-term resistance training overreaching. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 91, 628-637. Link: 10.1007/s00421-003-1031-z
  199. M. B. Williamson, A. Gulick (1941). INFLUENCE OF TESTOSTERONE ON DISTRIBUTION AND EXCRETION OF CREATINE. Endocrinology, 28, 654-658. Link: 10.1210/ENDO-28-4-654
  200. R. Rahimi, H. Faraji, D. S. Vatani, M. Qaderi (2010). CREATINE SUPPLEMENTATION ALTERS THE HORMONAL RESPONSE TO RESISTANCE EXERCISE. Kinesiology: international journal of fundamental and applied kinesiology, 42, 136-143. Link:
  201. J. Hoffman, N. Ratamess, Jie Kang, G. Mangine, A. Faigenbaum, Jeffrey R Stout (2006). Effect of creatine and beta-alanine supplementation on performance and endocrine responses in strength/power athletes.. International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism, 16 4,
    430-46 . Link: 10.1123/IJSNEM.16.4.430
  202. J. Volek, Mark Boetes, J. Bush, M. Putukian, W. Sebastianelli, W. Kraemer (1997). Response of Testosterone and Cortisol Concentrations to High‐Intensity Resistance Exercise Following Creatine Supplementation. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 11, 182–187. Link: 10.1519/00124278-199708000-00009
  203. Ebrahim Fallah, Pegah Hooshangi, Mohmmad Jahangiri (2023). The Effect of Tapering Period with and without Creatine Supplementation on Hormonal Responses of male football Players. Journal of Sports Physiology and Athletic Conditioning, , . Link: 10.52547/jspac.40182.3.7.23
  204. Ursula Sulistiani, W. Pangkahila, A. Pangkahila (2019). Administration of Creatine Monohydrate® increased the estrogen levels but have no effect on testosterone levels in male albino rats (rattus norvegicus) with moderate physical activity. IJAAM (Indonesian Journal of Anti-Aging Medicine), , . Link: 10.36675/IJAAM.V3I2.46
  205. J. van der Merwe, N. Brooks, K. Myburgh (2009). Three Weeks of Creatine Monohydrate Supplementation Affects Dihydrotestosterone to Testosterone Ratio in College-Aged Rugby Players. Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine, 19, 399-404. Link: 10.1097/JSM.0b013e3181b8b52f
  206. Julen Fernández-Landa, Diego Fernández-Lázaro, J. Calleja-González, Alberto Caballero-García, A. Córdova, Patxi León-Guereño, J. Mielgo-Ayuso (2020). Long-Term Effect of Combination of Creatine Monohydrate Plus β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyrate (HMB) on Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage and Anabolic/Catabolic Hormones in Elite Male Endurance Athletes. Biomolecules, 10, . Link: 10.3390/biom10010140
  207. B. O. Eijnde, P. Hespel (2001). Short-term creatine supplementation does not alter the hormonal response to resistance training.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 33 3,
    449-53 . Link: 10.1097/00005768-200103000-00018
  208. M. Hall, Caitlin G. Howe, Xinhua Liu, M. Caudill, O. Malysheva, V. Ilievski, Angela M. Lomax-Luu, F. Parvez, A. Siddique, Hasan Shahriar, M. Uddin, Tariqul Islam, J. Graziano, M. Gamble (2016). Supplementation with Folic Acid, but Not Creatine, Increases Plasma Betaine, Decreases Plasma Dimethylglycine, and Prevents a Decrease in Plasma Choline in Arsenic-Exposed Bangladeshi Adults.. The Journal of nutrition, 146 5,
    1062-7 . Link: 10.3945/jn.115.227132
  209. J. Poortmans, Marc Francaux (1999). Long-term oral creatine supplementation does not impair renal function in healthy athletes.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 31 8,
    1108-10 . Link: 10.1097/00005768-199908000-00005
  210. B. Gualano, C. Ugrinowitsch, Rafael B. Novaes, G. Artioli, M. Shimizu, A. Seguro, R. Harris, A. H. Lancha (2008). Effects of creatine supplementation on renal function: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 103, 33-40. Link: 10.1007/s00421-007-0669-3
  211. Paula Cancela, Carlos Ohanian, Eduardo Cuitiño, A. C. Hackney (2007). Creatine supplementation does not affect clinical health markers in football players. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 42, 731 - 735. Link: 10.1136/bjsm.2007.030700
  212. S. Percário, Sérgio Paulo de Tarso Domingues, L. Teixeira, J. L. Vieira, Flávio Pj de Vasconcelos, Daiane Marques Ciarrocchi, E. D. Almeida, M. Conte (2012). Effects of creatine supplementation on oxidative stress profile of athletes. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 9, 56 - 56. Link: 10.1186/1550-2783-9-56
  213. M. P. Barros, D. Ganini, L. Lorenço-Lima, C. Soares, B. Pereira, E. Bechara, L. Silveira, R. Curi, Tácito P. Souza-Junior (2012). Effects of acute creatine supplementation on iron homeostasis and uric acid-based antioxidant capacity of plasma after wingate test. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 9, 25 - 25. Link: 10.1186/1550-2783-9-25
  214. A. Bozack, M. Hall, Xinhua Liu, V. Ilievski, Angela M. Lomax-Luu, F. Parvez, A. Siddique, Hasan Shahriar, M. Uddin, Tariqul Islam, J. Graziano, M. Gamble (2018). Folic acid supplementation enhances arsenic methylation: results from a folic acid and creatine supplementation randomized controlled trial in Bangladesh.. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 109 2,
    380-391 . Link: 10.1093/ajcn/nqy148
  215. J. Brosnan, M. Brosnan (2010). Creatine metabolism and the urea cycle.. Molecular genetics and metabolism, 100 Suppl 1,
    S49-52 . Link: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2010.02.020
  216. Alexandre de Souza E Silva, A. Pertille, Carolina Gabriela Reis Barbosa, Jasiele Aparecida de Oliveira Silva, Diego Vilela de Jesus, Anna Gabriela Silva Vilela Ribeiro, Ronaldo Júlio Baganha, J. J. de Oliveira (2019). Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Renal Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.. Journal of renal nutrition : the official journal of the Council on Renal Nutrition of the National Kidney Foundation, , . Link: 10.1053/j.jrn.2019.05.004
  217. V. Samanidou, A. Metaxa, I. Papadoyannis (2002). DIRECT SIMULTANEOUS DETERMINATION OF UREMIC TOXINS: CREATINE, CREATININE, URIC ACID, AND XANTHINE IN HUMAN BIOFLUIDS BY HPLC. Journal of Liquid Chromatography & Related Technologies, 25, 43 - 57. Link: 10.1081/JLC-100108538
  218. R. Kreider, Maria Pontes Ferreira, M. Wilson, P. Grindstaff, S. Plisk, J. Reinardy, E. Cantler, A. Almada (1998). Effects of creatine supplementation on body composition, strength, and sprint performance.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 30 1,
    73-82 . Link: 10.1097/00005768-199801000-00011
  219. Sasa Mihic, J. Macdonald, S. McKenzie, M. Tarnopolsky (2000). Acute creatine loading increases fat-free mass, but does not affect blood pressure, plasma creatinine, or CK activity in men and women.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 32 2,
    291-6 . Link: 10.1097/00005768-200002000-00007
  220. J. Rockwell, J. Rankin, Ben Toderico (2001). Creatine supplementation affects muscle creatine during energy restriction.. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 33 1,
    61-8 . Link: 10.1097/00005768-200101000-00011
  221. J. Eckerson, Jeffrey R Stout, G. Moore, N. Stone, K. Iwan, Amy N. Gebauer, R. Ginsberg (2005). EFFECT OF CREATINE PHOSPHATE SUPPLEMENTATION ON ANAEROBIC WORKING CAPACITY AND BODY WEIGHT AFTER TWO AND SIX DAYS OF LOADING IN MEN AND WOMEN. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 19, 756–763. Link: 10.1519/R-16924.1
  222. S. Forbes, D. Candow, J. Krentz, M. Roberts, Kaelin C. Young (2019). Changes in Fat Mass Following Creatine Supplementation and Resistance Training in Adults ≥50 Years of Age: A Meta-Analysis. Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology, 4, . Link: 10.3390/jfmk4030062
  223. L. Kazak, Edward T. Chouchani, Gina Z. Lu, Mark P. Jedrychowski, Curtis J. Bare, Amir I. Mina, M. Kumari, Song Zhang, I. Vučković, Dina Laznik-Bogoslavski, P. Dzeja, Alexander S. Banks, E. Rosen, B. Spiegelman (2017). Genetic Depletion of Adipocyte Creatine Metabolism Inhibits Diet-Induced Thermogenesis and Drives Obesity.. Cell metabolism, 26 4,
    660-671.e3 . Link: 10.1016/j.cmet.2017.08.009
  224. A. Jatoi, Preston D. Steen, P. Atherton, D. Moore, K. Rowland, N. Le-Lindqwister, C. Adonizio, A. Jaslowski, J. Sloan, C. L. Loprinzi (2017). A double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial of creatine for the cancer anorexia/weight loss syndrome (N02C4): an Alliance trial. Annals of Oncology, 28, 1957–1963. Link: 10.1093/annonc/mdx232
  225. E. Jówko, P. Ostaszewski, M. Jank, J. Sacharuk, A. Zieniewicz, J. Wilczak, S. Nissen (2001). Creatine and beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) additively increase lean body mass and muscle strength during a weight-training program.. Nutrition, 17 7-8,
    558-66 . Link:
  226. Matthew Kutz, Michael J Gunter (2003). Creatine Monohydrate Supplementation on Body Weight and Percent Body Fat. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 17, 817–821. Link: 10.1519/1533-4287(2003)017<0817:CMSOBW>2.0.CO;2

Back to table of contents

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Any products and informational content displayed on this page are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.