Creatine is one of the world's most popular and widely used supplements. It was discovered in 1832 by a French Scientist, Chevreul, and since the early 1990s has been helping athletes and fitness enthusiasts achieve their goals. But what is creatine exactly, and why is it so beneficial?
Creatine is naturally produced by the body, in the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. Creatine can also be found in some foods, such as meat and fish, but can also be taken as a supplement in the form of a powder or capsule.
Strength and Size
- Creatine is best known for its ability to boost muscle mass and strength. It accomplishes this by increasing the body's ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, production. Muscle contraction is driven by ATP, so when creatine boosts ATP production, it helps the muscles work harder and longer during exercise.
Endurance
- Creatine also helps reduce fatigue, while boosting endurance. By quickly replenishing the body's energy reserves, this allows athletes to exercise for longer periods of time without becoming fatigued.
Power Output
- Creatine can increase muscle power, crucial for exercises like sprinting and heavy lifting. Creatine aids in the production of phosphocreatine, a compound that gives muscles the energy they need for quick, explosive movements.
Brain Health
- Studies have demonstrated that taking a creatine supplement can enhance memory and learning. This is due to the role that creatine plays in the synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is crucial for memory and learning.
Anti-Inflammatory
- Creatine can also aid in lowering markers of inflammatory in the body. The body's natural response to an injury or infection is inflammation, which can also occur from strenuous exercise. Studies have demonstrated that taking a creatine supplement can lower inflammation, which can reduce, pain and quicken recovery.
Overall, Creatine supplementation can be a great way to improve athletic performance and optimize health, for both athletes and non-athletes alike.