The Health Benefits Of Creatine

Creatine is considered the most effective sports supplement available on the market today. Creatine’s widespread popularity and longevity is down to the simple fact that it provides many benefits for the athlete and physically active. Creatine supplementation is particularly beneficial to those engaged in weight training. Creatine supplemtation has the ability to aid recovery and increase strength, power and lean muscle mass, which has been widely demonstrated by research. However, Creatine provides a wider array of benefits than those relating directly to physical activity. These wider health benefits of Creatine may be less well known but research suggests that Creatine supplementation should be seriously considered by those seeking to improve general health and lifestyle as well as those engaged in regular physical activity.

What is Creatine?

Creatine is a compound found in food and produced naturally by the body. Creatine is produced by the liver, pancreas and kidneys and transported around the body via the blood stream. When Creatine reaches the muscles it is converted into phosphocreatine, which is used to replenish the Muscles energy reserves (ATP). Simply put, Creatine supplies energy to the muscles. Under stress the muscles energy levels deplete rapidly. Creatine is responsible for restoring these energy levels. Supplementing with Creatine enhances the bodies’ ability to accomplish this which enables harder, more effective training and better results. Creatine has a wealth of benefits for those looking to improve their athletic ability and body composition.

Creatine as an Antioxidant

Antioxidants are substances that are capable of diminishing the damaging effects of oxidation. Oxidation occurs when oxygen is metabolised in the body it creates free radicals. These free radicals are potentially harmful and can cause degenerative conditions such as inflammation, accelerated aging, heart and liver disease and cancer.  Research suggests that Creatine is a particularly effective antioxidant. This indicates that Creatine supplementation can form a cornerstone of a healthy living supplementation and exercise regime for all people, not just those engaged in rigorous physical activity.

Creatine to Increase Mental Capacity

Creatine has long been demonstrated to have a beneficial impact upon muscle capacity and enhancing physical activity. However, new research indicates that Creatine may also have similarly beneficial effects upon brain function too. Recent studies have demonstrated that those following a Creatine supplementation regime had improved problem solving capacities and higher IQ scores than those taking a placebo. Another interesting side-benefit of adding Creatine to your supplementation regime.

Creatine Summary

• Creatine is the most effective and widely researched supplement available on the market today.
• Creatine has the ability to improve both physical and mental capacities.
• Creatine is very effective as an antioxidant.
• Take 6-10 grams of Creatine per day for at least three weeks to enjoy maximal benefit.
• Daily creatine consumption gets results – consistency is key.