Creatine
What is Creatine?
Creatine is an organic compound that is found naturally in the body, as well as in red meat and seafood (1)(2)(3)(5)(6). It is involved in the production of energy for muscles, particularly during high-intensity exercise (2)(3)(6). Creatine is also available as a dietary supplement and is used to improve athletic performance, increase muscle mass, and treat certain medical conditions (2)(3)(5)(6).
Dosage
The dosage of creatine varies depending on the condition being treated and the patient's weight (2)(3)(5). The standard dose of creatine is 3-5 grams per day, taken orally (2)(3)(5).
Side Effects
Creatine is generally safe when taken in moderate doses (2)(3)(5)(6). Some possible side effects with oral use include stomach upset, diarrhea, and muscle cramps (2)(3)(5). Dehydration may also occur if creatine is taken in high doses (5).
Interactions
Creatine may interact with certain medications, such as diuretics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (2)(3)(5). Prior consultation with a medical expert is recommended before combining creatine with other drugs or supplements.
Time of Day and With or Without Food
Creatine supplements can be taken at any time of day, with or without food (2)(3)(5).
Human Studies
Creatine has been studied for its potential health benefits, including improving athletic performance, increasing muscle mass, and treating certain medical conditions (2)(3)(5)(6). It is one of the most well-researched supplements, and studies have shown that it is generally safe and effective when taken in moderate doses (2)(3)(5)(6).
To summarize, Creatine is an organic compound that is found naturally in the body, as well as in red meat and seafood. It is involved in the production of energy for muscles, particularly during high-intensity exercise. Creatine is also available as a dietary supplement and is used to improve athletic performance, increase muscle mass, and treat certain medical conditions. The standard dose of creatine is 3-5 grams per day, taken orally. Creatine is generally safe when taken in moderate doses, and some possible side effects with oral use include stomach upset, diarrhea, and muscle cramps. Creatine may interact with certain medications, and it can be taken at any time of day, with or without food. Creatine has been extensively studied for its potential health benefits, and studies have shown that it is generally safe and effective when taken in moderate doses.
Citations:
(1) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Creatine
(2) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/263269
(3) https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/supplement/creatine
(4) https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-creatine/art-20347591
(5) https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-873/creatine
(6) https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-is-creatine