Creatine

Creatine is a naturally-occurring compound that’s usually found in muscle fibers. It’s primary role consist to generate energy and mediate muscle contraction.

Today, thousands of professional athletes and gym-goers regularly take creatine supplementation, especially in it’s monohydrate form, to improve their performance and promote muscle growth. Creatine takes part in numerous biochemical reactions to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This molecule is the main form of energy used by our cells.

In this article, we will discuss creatine’s mechanism of action and the benefits you can expect from taking its supplements.

How does creatine work?

When you take creatine supplements, your cell’s storage of phosphocreatine (the form of creatine stored in the muscles) increases. As a result, the mitochondria (i.e., the cell’s powerhouse) becomes more efficient at producing ATP.  Clinically, creatine supplements will make you feel more energized, which eventually optimizes your performance. Besides energy production, creatine improves your performance by boosting the capacity of the workload. In other words, you will be able to lift more weights for a longer period of time.  According to studies, creatine also signals the secretion of anabolic hormones (e.g., growth factors, IGF-1) that promote muscle fiber repair and growth.

Finally, creatine slows down the process of proteolysis (i.e., protein degradation) and reduces the concentrations of myostatin*.

*Myostatin: this is a protein that inhibits the biochemical reactions responsible for muscle hypertrophy

The benefits of creatine

Muscle hypertrophy

Similar to whey protein, creatine is effective at promoting muscle growth. In fact, your muscles could grow even if you are not performing high-intensity workouts. In one study, participants (older adults) took creatine supplementation for 14 weeks while exercising regularly. A second group did not receive supplements but had an identical workout routine compared to the first group. At the end of the study, the group that took creatine supplements noted a huge difference in muscle growth relative to the control group.

Other benefits

Other benefits of taking creatine supplements include:

  • Improves cognitive function
  • Enhances blood sugar control
  • Decreases fatty deposition in the liver
  • Promotes a better quality of life for the elderly

Before taking creatine supplements, you may want to speak with your primary care physician to make sure that it’s safe.

Conclusion

Creatine is an excellent compound that provides the body with a myriad of health benefits. The intake of creatine supplements is particularly beneficial for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who want to optimize their performance.  If you are interested in this supplement, you should have a look at creatine supplements review.

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