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Visorių g. 2, Vilnius
Published 17/07/2024

Choosing the right creatine supplement can be an important step to maximize its benefits and effectiveness in sports. In this article, I will thoroughly discuss different forms of creatine, their advantages, and scientifically supported claims about their effectiveness.

Creatine is a naturally occurring substance found in muscles and the brain. It is a highly effective supplement that can help athletes and individuals leading an active lifestyle achieve the best results. Creatine works by increasing the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the primary energy source for muscle contraction. This allows for increased strength, endurance, and faster recovery after workouts. Note that regardless of the creatine modification, its mechanism of action remains similar.

Here are some different forms of creatine, and these are just the most popular ones:

  • Creatine monohydrate: This is the most popular and widely studied form of creatine, most commonly used by athletes. It helps increase muscle mass and strength.

  • Creatine hydrochloride (HCL): This form of creatine dissolves better in water and may be better absorbed by the body. It also causes less stomach irritation.

  • Creatine ethyl ester: This form has an ester group that increases creatine absorption and stability in the body.

  • Buffered creatine (Kre-Alkalyn): This is a pH-balanced form of creatine that may help reduce creatine breakdown into creatinine, thereby increasing its effectiveness.

  • Creatine nitrate: A form of creatine combined with nitric acid that may improve blood flow and nutrient absorption in muscles.

  • Tri Creatine malate: This form of creatine is combined with malic acid, which may help improve energy production and reduce muscle fatigue.

  • Creatine phosphate: This is a form of creatine where creatine is combined with phosphate, which is directly used for energy production in muscles.

  • Creatine gluconate is a form of creatine where creatine is combined with a glucose molecule (gluconate). This combination is designed to improve creatine absorption and transport into muscles. Glucose may help increase insulin levels in the blood, which in turn may improve creatine absorption.

  • Creatine magnesium chelate: This form is combined with magnesium, which may improve creatine transport and absorption in muscles.

Benefits of Creatine

  • Increased muscle strength and endurance: Many studies show that creatine supplementation increases strength and endurance, especially during high-intensity exercises such as strength training or sprints.

  • Faster recovery: Creatine helps reduce muscle damage and inflammation after workouts, allowing for quicker recovery and more frequent training.

  • Muscle mass growth: Some studies show that creatine can contribute to increased muscle mass, especially when combined with intense strength training and proper nutrition.

  • Support for brain function: Creatine may have beneficial effects on brain functions, helping to improve memory and cognitive functions, especially in older adults.

What to know before choosing a creatine supplement?

Before choosing a creatine supplement, it is important to consider the following factors:

  • Composition and research: Choose a creatine supplement that is well researched and made from quality ingredients, also from a reliable manufacturer, because creatine supplements are especially easy to counterfeit, as this supplement does not have an immediate effect.

  • Form and absorption: Creatine monohydrate is a well-studied and very effective form that retains water, cre-alakline is essentially the same creatine monohydrate but does not retain water, other variants have special advantages but their effectiveness may vary, we also recommend consulting Papildu Pasaulis specialists for individual creatine selection.

  • Dosage and usage: Follow the recommended doses, as excessive creatine intake can cause side effects such as stomach pain or water retention.

When to use?

  • After training: Many athletes take creatine immediately after training together with carbohydrates and proteins to improve absorption.
  • Before training: Some people like to take creatine before training to increase energy levels and endurance.
  • Any time of the day: Creatine can be taken at any time because the important thing is its consistent use, not a specific time.

How to use?

  • With water: Mix creatine powder with a glass of water or another liquid such as juice or amino acids; basically, creatine can be used by simply putting a scoop into the mouth and washing it down with water or juice.
  • With juice: Creatine can be mixed with fruit juices that contain natural sugars, which help creatine absorption, because natural glucose binds to the creatine molecule and improves creatine absorption.
  • With protein shake: Creatine can be added to a protein shake after training, as there is no established effectiveness of creatine regarding the best time to take it, whether before or after training or simply in the morning or evening; the main thing is that it is consumed.

Additional tips?

  • Drink plenty of water: Creatine can cause dehydration, so it is important to drink enough water throughout the day, 2-3 liters is ideal, but not less.
  • Regularity: It is important to take creatine regularly, as consistent use ensures optimal results; continuous creatine intake maintains ATP synthesis, thus ensuring a constant and steady energy level.
  • Consultation with a doctor: If you have health problems such as kidney or liver issues or are taking other medications, consult a doctor before starting to take creatine. It may not cause any health problems, but it is better to consult a specialist.

Creatine in food products or how to get creatine from food?

  • Beef: Beef is one of the richest sources of creatine. 100 grams of beef can provide about 350-500 mg of creatine.
  • Pork: Pork is also a good source of creatine, containing a similar amount as beef – about 350-500 mg of creatine per 100 grams.
  • Salmon: Salmon is an excellent source of creatine. 100 grams of salmon provides about 400-500 mg of creatine.
  • Tuna: Tuna has a considerable amount of creatine, similar to salmon, about 400-500 mg of creatine per 100 grams.
  • Cod: Cod has slightly less creatine than salmon and tuna, but is still a good source – about 300-450 mg of creatine per 100 grams.
  • Chicken: Chicken has less creatine than red meat, but can still be beneficial – about 50-100 mg of creatine per 100 grams.
  • Turkey: Similar to chicken, turkey contains about 50-100 mg of creatine per 100 grams.

Conclusion

Creatine is one of the most popular and effective dietary supplements for athletes and individuals leading an active lifestyle. By choosing the right form of creatine, considering scientific research and your individual goals, you can maximize its benefits for muscle strength, endurance, mental performance, and overall health. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or trainer before starting creatine supplementation to select the optimal and safe dosage for your individual needs.

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