Myths About Creatine Debunked

Creatine is one of the most popular supplements on the market. Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions about its side effects and uses. Learn the facts about creatine.

What is Creatine?

Creatine is one of the most highly researched supplements available on the market. Even if you're relatively new to the world of fitness and supplements, you've most likely heard of it. Creatine is a molecule found naturally in your muscles. It is involved in energy metabolism during high intensity workouts. It is commonly used as part of a resistance training and nutrition routine.

Creatine is commonly used as part of a training routine to support general exercise performance. Pretty great, huh?

How does Creatine work?

Hold on, we are about to get sciencey! Creatine is associated with phosphocreatine stores in muscle, which play a role in energy metabolism during exercise. Great huh? Now that we have an idea of the role that creatine plays in our body, let's address a few of the myths out there that surround this product even today..

Myth 1: CREATINE CAUSES KIDNEY AND LIVER DAMAGE

Fact: There have been numerous studies conducted on creatine supplementation, all of which have concluded long-term creatine usage does not appear to have any negative side effects on the liver or kidneys.

Myth 2: CREATINE CAUSES GASTROINTESTINAL DISTRESS

Fact: All available evidence suggests creatine is safe to use, although it may cause some minor GI distress.

There is some truth to gastrointestinal (GI) issues with creatine supplementation, but it's rare. In fact, it's reported that only 5-7 percent of people who take creatine experience stomach aches. Stomach distress typically occurs when you take too much creatine at once (e.g., a loading phase) or on an empty stomach. To help reduce any chance of stomach discomfort micronized forms of creatine have been developed. These forms of creatine have much smaller particle sizes and are much more soluble in liquid to improve absorption.

Myth 3: CREATINE CAUSES CRAMPING AND DEHYDRATION

Fact: There is no data that shows creatine causes muscle cramps or dehydration.

One of the most common concerns about creatine supplementation is that it can cause dehydration or cramping, particularly on hot and humid days. This is simply not the case. To the contrary, Research has not supported the claim that creatine causes dehydration; staying well hydrated is recommended when supplementing.

Myth 4: CREATINE LEADS TO WEIGHT GAIN

Fact: Creatine loading may lead to some small initial weight gain within the first few days due to water being pulled into the muscle. However, this can be avoided by following a lower-dose protocol. Creatine is commonly used alongside resistance training and a balanced diet as part of a general fitness routine.

Myth 5: CREATINE NEEDS TO BE "CYCLED"

Fact: Creatine does not need to be cycled. Continuous use shows to have continuous benefits. Because creatine has no harmful effects on the body, continuous supplementation is preferred to reap the long term benefits.

So as you can see, there is nothing to worry about when it comes to creatine. Make sure to make it a part of your supplement routine and explore creatine supplementation as part of your routine today!

Emrald Labs Creatine HCL - Give it a go!