Okay, lets talk about creatine. Probably you’ve heard it whispered in the gym. Or seen on supplement shelves. Then what is the hype? Bodybuilders don’t have to hoard powders to get the benefits of creatine. This powerful molecule has much to offer.
To get to the point, creatine can be found naturally in your muscle cells. Creatine helps you produce energy while doing high intensity exercise. Consider it your secret muscle energy drink that kicks in as soon as you are about to complete the last rep.
It’s not a stretch to say that even Einstein experimented with the drug creatine. Although it may seem a bit far-fetched, the concept is not. What do you think? Our brains require a considerable amount of power. Creatine has been shown to improve cognitive function. It’s not realistic to expect that a single pill will make you an Einstein.
There’s a good reason why athletes swear by it: It works. Anyone ever see someone in the gym lifting a weight that looks as if it could be a small vehicle? These people are likely consuming creatine. It makes ATP available by increasing phosphocreatine levels in your muscle tissue. More ATP translates directly into better performance.
“You’re telling me creatine makes me stronger?” you ask. Absolutely. These studies, yes those boring ones–show creatine to be more effective than lifting weights alone in increasing strength and muscle mass. According to one study, performance increased by 5-15%. That’s not bad at all.
Here’s a myth to dispel: Creatine does not contain steroids. You won’t become the Hulk by taking creatine. It is not an illegal substance. You can think of it as drinking a cup of strong coffee just before you go to a meeting.
It is important to keep hydrated. Creatine draws water to muscle cells. Although this can lead to gains in strength, it can make you feel parched without enough water. Everyone hates feeling as parched and dry as an oasis in the middle a work out. You should drink water to the point that your muscles will depend on you.
Do you feel like it takes forever for your muscles to recover following a strenuous workout? Creatine speeds up recovery. This helps the body recover faster by reducing cell injury and inflammation. It’s like your own repair crew working long hours to get you back up and running.
You’re curious about side-effects? Creatine has fewer side effects than other supplements. Most people who take creatine are safe. Some may feel cramps in their stomachs, or they might gain a few pounds.
There’s no need to worry about complicated dosing schedules or weird concoctions. No intricate dosing schedules, no weird concoctions. Add creatine to your smoothie in the morning, mix it with a glass water, or add it as a shake after your workout. The process is simple.
You may be surprised to learn that vegans and vegetarians can benefit from even higher levels of creatine. Because creatine can only be found in animal-based products, vegans and vegetarians tend to have lower reserves, which makes supplementation more effective. Add the creatine powder to your oat milk lattes and get an extra brain and muscle boost.
In terms of cognitive performance, creatine can help you remember the reason why (again) you entered a room. Aged people, take note: creatine could boost cognitive abilities in ways you did not know.
There’s a role for creatine in every routine. Whether you sprint, pump iron or want to remain sharp mentally, it has its place. The sidekick that always saves the day in superhero movies, it’s a quiet powerhouse.