Creatine
One of the most research-supported supplements on the market!
A beneficial supplement to learn about is Creatine. You may be questioning this supplement before I even get started but hopefully your mind will be changed by the end of this short discourse. Isn’t creatine just for high-level athletes who are trying to maximize their performance and get jacked? Doesn’t this supplement damage your kidneys? Not so fast.
Quick science background, creatine is a natural supplement found in all muscle cells that assists in the process of producing Adenosine Tri-Phosphate (ATP) – a fancy way of saying energy. Interestingly, creatine is the most rapid way in which the body produces energy which is what makes it so crucial for athletes participating in high-intensity exercise such as lifting and sprinting… yet it has MANY more benefits. Staying within the context of muscle, creatine can assist in muscle protein synthesis (muscle growth/health), decreased soreness following exercise, and reduced protein breakdown – especially important for those individuals getting to the age of muscle decline (sarcopenia). This can begin at age 30(!) which is quite incredible.
Now let’s get to the interesting part. Not only is creatine naturally found in muscle, it’s also important for another area that requires TONS of energy for optimal functioning… the BRAIN! Without diving too far into the research, creatine supplementation has been examined for its benefit in combating Alzheimer’s & Parkinson’s disease. In addition, it has been demonstrated to have an antidepressant-like effect while also leading to improvements in memory and task recognition. This list could go on for pages, but I think you might be realizing by now that one thing is clear… creatine is suitable for ALL people – regardless of your age, gender, activity level, etc. If I could get them to be compliant, I would have both sets of my grandparents taking creatine every day! It’s also important to note that creatine is the world’s most researched supplement with an incredible safety profile.
What does this mean for you?
Consume 5g of Creatine Monohydrate 1x per day – this can occur at any time of day. Creatine is an extremely inexpensive supplement that mixes well with water, or you can put it in a smoothie, coffee, tea, or your beverage of choice (excluding Bud Light).
Recommended Brands: (I have no affiliation with any of these) – Make sure it’s Creatine Monohydrate!
Thorne Supplements
Transparent Labs
Optimum Nutrition
- I have discount codes for many of these supplements so please reach out before purchasing!
As always, reach out with any questions you may have on Creatine and its fit for you!
Quote of the week:
“Self-care is not selfish. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.”
– Eleanor Brown
DISCLAIMER
- This is NOT Medical advice. Consult your medical professional before starting any supplement, diet regimen, or workout program.
Super informative, yet light to read.
Well done Zach!
Hi Zach! I was happy to read this. My son has taken this forever, but I never would have thought I should look at taking it. I'm going to look these up and give it a try:) Thank you for another informative article:)