International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine
Research snapshot:
2017 review study finds creatine monohydrate safely enhances exercise performance and lean body mass.
2017 |
Position Stand |
Creatine |
Exercise performance |
Overview.
The study concludes that creatine monohydrate supplementation is safe and effective for improving high-intensity exercise capacity and lean body mass, with no adverse effects on renal function or other health markers.
Background.
A team of researchers associated with the International Society of Sports Nutrition, including Richard B. Kreider, Douglas S. Kalman, Jose Antonio, Tim N. Ziegenfuss, Robert Wildman, Rick Collins, Darren G. Candow, Susan M. Kleiner, Anthony L. Almada, and Hector L. Lopez, conducted this review and published it in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.
Objectives.
The objectives of the study were to review the scientific literature on the role and safety of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. The researchers aimed to update the position stand of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) regarding creatine supplementation and its benefits and potential risks.
Study design.
This was a comprehensive review and position stand update based on extensive scientific literature. The study included data from numerous clinical trials and studies involving athletes and various patient populations. The researchers evaluated the effects of creatine supplementation on muscle performance, recovery, injury prevention, and overall health.
Results.
The results showed that creatine supplementation significantly increases muscle creatine and phosphocreatine levels, enhancing high-intensity exercise performance and recovery. It also reduces the incidence of musculoskeletal injuries, dehydration, and muscle cramping. Long-term creatine supplementation did not impair renal function or cause other adverse health effects. Additionally, creatine supplementation was found to have neuroprotective benefits and potential therapeutic applications in neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular health, and other clinical conditions.
Conclusions.
The researchers concluded that creatine monohydrate is a safe and effective ergogenic aid that can improve exercise performance and overall health. It is recommended for athletes and individuals involved in resistance training, especially those who are supervised and consume a well-balanced diet. The study also highlighted the potential therapeutic benefits of creatine in various clinical populations.
Original paper.
Kreider RB, Kalman DS, Antonio J, et al. International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2017; 14: 18. doi: 10.1186/s12970-017-0173-z
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