What is it?
First identified 180 years ago, and named after the Greek word for meat, creatine is a nitrogenous organic acid which occurs naturally in humans and boosts energy to all the body’s cells, particularly muscle, as it increases the formation of something called adenosine triphosphate.
How do athletes use it?
For some 20 years now, bodybuilders, athletes and other sports players who want to develop their muscle mass have used creatine, generally at least doubling the quantity they could get even from a very high-protein diet.
It’s possible to take these supplements in powder, capsule or as tablets.
Is it safe?
Extended research over the past 10 years has found that oral supplementation of up to 20 daily grams is extremely safe, with very few side-effects. The body’s response to resistance training is boosted, enhancing muscle production in men and women.
The only times when users need to exercise caution is if they have an underlying liver disease, and during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Latest news on creatine supplements
Studies have already revealed that bone cells use creatine for energy and bone formation. Now a study shows the substance could have potential for preventing the bone condition osteoporosis, something which the UK is likely to see more of in the future as more people live longer.
A study in Canada held over 10-12 weeks and involving men aged older than 60 put those taking part in a weight training programme, with half on creatine supplements and the remainder on a placebo. Urine samples from the research suggested that those taking creatine experienced less bone deterioration.
Now the study has been extended to research both men and women aged over 50. The same format – weight training and half taking the supplement, the other 50% a placebo – will this time be expanded to cover a full year.
The team will set out to show that the non-placebo group will experience an extra advantage in terms of greater bone density, and that supplementing can be an extra weapon in the ongoing battle against osteoporosis.
Creatine supplements from Monster Supplements
At Monster Supplements, we supply a wide range of products including creatine capsules and cheap protein supplements, among many other things.
We’re passionate about what we do, and very knowledgeable, so can offer youexpert advice and guidance about which is the right muscle or bodybuilding supplement for your needs, whether you are more concerned about endurance or developing size and strength or boosting team sport performance.
Call our order hotline for the cost of a local call, or order online and look forward to very swift UK-wide delivery. Your order is insured, and the vast majority reach our customers within 48 hours.
And we monitor stock levels so that we only offer details of items for sale which we currently have in stock.
Register an account and browse our online product reviews – or submit one yourself. Equally, we’re Hull based, so, if you’re local, pop in for some advice or to collect your order.