Who should not take creatine supplements?

Creatine isn’t recommended for people with kidney or liver disease, or diabetes. Others who should avoid taking it are children under age 18 and women who are pregnant or nursing.

Can creatine be harmful?

The International Society of Sports Nutrition recently found no scientific evidence that short- or long-term use of creatine monohydrate causes any harmful effects on otherwise healthy individuals.

Is creatine perfectly safe for everyone?

Is creatine safe? Creatine is a safe, well-studied supplement. Studies in a variety of people have shown no detrimental health effects of taking creatine supplements in doses up to 4–20 grams per day for 10 months to 5 years ( 19 , 20 , 21 ).

Why do doctors say creatine is bad?

While taking creatine might not help all athletes, evidence suggests that it generally won’t hurt if taken as directed. Although an older case study suggested that creatine might worsen kidney dysfunction in people with kidney disorders, creatine doesn’t appear to affect kidney function in healthy people.

Do I really need creatine?

“It’s a nonessential amino acid, meaning your body creates it and you don’t need to primarily get it from food.” And you don’t really need added creatine beyond what’s in a healthy, balanced diet, Bates adds. “Creatine isn’t an essential nutrient,” she says.

Can you take creatine if you are not healthy?

Also don’t use creatine if you are taking any medication or supplement that could affect your blood sugar, because creatine may also affect blood sugar levels. If you do take creatine, drink enough water to prevent dehydration. No matter how healthy you are, let your doctor know before you take creatine or any other supplement.

What are the side effects of creatine?

The most commonly reported side effects of taking this supplement are bloating and stomach discomfort. You can prevent these side effects by limiting your dose to 10 grams or less in a single serving. Taking creatine supplements is otherwise safe and healthy for most people.

What should I avoid while taking creatine?

To prevent dehydration, experts often suggest drinking plenty of water when using creatine. Interactions. Large amounts of carbohydrates may increase the effects of creatine. Caffeine may decrease the muscle effects. Using creatine along with stimulants such as caffeine, guarana,…

Should teens take creatine supplements?

One of the primary reasons why teens take creatine is to increase muscle mass and gain a good physique, and creatine turns out to be the ideal supplement. Creatine supplements work by drawing water into the muscles. Initially, this leads to water retention and body weight.