Can creatine negatively affect you?

One of the longest studies to date — lasting for four years — similarly concluded that creatine has no negative side effects ( 24 ). Another popular study often cited in the media reported kidney disease in a male weightlifter who supplemented with creatine ( 28 ).

What is a safe age to take creatine?

The minimum age for taking creatine supplements is 18. Because so little is known about the long-term effects of creatine, it’s not recommended for children and teens under the age of 18. For this group, it’s better to improve sports performance through nutrition and athletic training.

Is creatine bad for 15 year olds?

The American Academy of Pediatrics specifically recommends against its use by adolescents, and most of the flavored powders, tablets, energy bars and drink mixes containing creatine bear warning labels that the supplement is not recommended for anyone under 18.

Is creatine safe for a 17 year old?

Metzl, MD, tells WebMD that the American College of Sports Medicine has recommended that people 18 and younger should not use creatine.

What are the side effects of creatine?

Usually, consumers do not report any adverse effects, but body mass increases. There are few reports that creatine supplementation has protective effects in heart, muscle and neurological diseases. Gastrointestinal disturbances and muscle cramps have been reported occasionally in healthy individuals, but the effects are anecdotal.

Does creatine cause muscle cramps or dehydration?

Fact: There is no data that shows creatine causes muscle cramps or dehydration. One of the most common concerns about creatine supplementation is that it can cause dehydration or cramping, particularly in hot and humid environments. This is simply not the case.

Is creatine bad for you if you are pregnant?

Creatine may not be as effective in improving strength or building muscle in people over 60 years old. It is not known whether creatine will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this product if you are pregnant. Creatine may pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby.

Does creatine affect liver function in young athletes?

We have investigated liver changes during medium term (4 weeks) creatine supplementation in young athletes. None showed any evidence of dysfunction on the basis of serum enzymes and urea production.