Creatine offers a range of health benefits beyond enhancing workouts on push, pull, and leg days.
Creatine is a natural substance synthesized from amino acids in the liver, kidneys, and pancreas, primarily stored in muscle tissues to supply quick energy during high-intensity exercises.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, approximately 95% of creatine is delivered to skeletal muscles for physical activity, while the remaining amount is distributed to the heart, brain, and other bodily tissues.
Beyond its muscle-building properties, research indicates that creatine may aid in managing chronic health conditions.
Creatine has been shown to potentially safeguard against cognitive decline, lower the risk of some cancers, and alleviate symptoms associated with long Covid.
Several studies suggest that creatine could combat cognitive decline by bolstering the brain’s energy supply, particularly during mental fatigue and the aging process.
Creatine has many benefits beyond just muscle building (Getty Stock Images)
Reducing the Risk of Certain Cancers
Creatine can enhance the body’s energy systems, which is crucial for the health of cells. Some researchers propose that this may contribute to a decreased risk of specific cancers. A study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition supports this idea, attributing improved cell function and immune response to creatine supplementation.
Alleviating Symptoms of Long Covid
Creatine is under investigation for its potential benefits for individuals suffering from long Covid. Many patients report persistent fatigue and weakness.
A clinical study published in Food Science & Nutrition discovered that creatine supplementation significantly improved various symptoms in patients enduring long Covid.
This might be due to its ability to bolster the body’s energy production, potentially reducing fatigue while promoting muscle strength.
Creatine is stored mainly in muscles to provide rapid energy during high-intensity exercise (Getty Stock Images)
Coping with Sleep Deprivation
Research published in Scientific Reports even indicates that a single high dose of creatine might temporarily help the brain handle lack of sleep.
In an experiment led by Ali Gordjinejad, 15 participants were given either a creatine supplement or a placebo and tested for reaction times, memory, and cognitive speed.
Interestingly, those who took creatine displayed significantly faster information processing than the placebo group. Gordjinejad surmises that sleep deprivation increases the energy demands on brain cells.
What Happens if You Stop Taking Creatine for Three Months
TikToker Cillian Domican shared his experience of stopping creatine for three months.
Before (TikTok/@Cillianfit)
Nutritionist and fitness expert Alan Aragon mentioned on Steven Bartlett’s Diary of a CEO podcast: “There’s almost nothing creatine can’t do.”
“It not only offers musculoskeletal benefits but also appears to have positive effects on joint health,” he added.
After (TikTok/@Cillianfit)
“Creatine is linked to benefits like improved glucose control and enhanced cognitive functions,” he concluded.
