Creatine in Health and Disease
Research snapshot:
2021 systematic review finds creatine supplementation enhances health, fitness, and cognitive function across populations.
2021 |
Systematic Review |
Creatine |
Therapeutic Benefits |
Overview.
Creatine supplementation has been extensively studied for its potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in enhancing athletic performance, improving mental health, and mitigating various health conditions. This comprehensive review highlights creatine’s role in energy metabolism, its efficacy in different patient groups, and its safety profile.
Background.
Conducted by Richard B. Kreider and Jeffery R. Stout, this study was published in Nutrients and funded by AlzChem, LLC. The research involved analyzing over 1300 articles to evaluate the effects of creatine on metabolism, performance, health, and disease management.
Objectives.
The primary objectives of this study were to review the peer-reviewed scientific and medical literature on creatine supplementation, assess the state of the science related to creatine’s benefits and limitations, and identify future research needs.
Study design.
The study involved a systematic review of the scientific and medical literature using keyword searches on PubMed to examine topics related to creatine supplementation. A total of 1322 articles were reviewed, highlighting relevant research.
Results.
Creatine is a naturally occurring compound that plays a critical role in muscle metabolism, primarily as part of the phosphocreatine system. It aids in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a primary energy source for brain and muscle function. Studies have shown that creatine supplementation can improve muscle strength, endurance, and cognitive function. It has potential therapeutic benefits for treating various health conditions, including depression, neurodegenerative diseases, and muscle disorders. Creatine has been found to enhance brain bioenergetics, potentially alleviating symptoms of depression and improving cognitive function in elderly individuals and those with mild cognitive impairment.
Conclusions.
The benefits of creatine supplementation extend beyond athletic performance, with potential therapeutic applications in various health conditions. It enhances cellular energy availability, supports general health, fitness, and well-being throughout the lifespan. Creatine supplementation may improve muscle accretion, bone density, and cognitive function, particularly in older adults. It also has neuroprotective properties and may be beneficial in managing neurodegenerative diseases and traumatic brain injuries.
Original paper.
Kreider R.B., Stout J.R. (2021). Creatine in Health and Disease. Nutrients. 13(2): 447.
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