Creatine is a naturally occurring compound found in muscle tissue and the brain, also obtained through dietary sources like red meat and fish. It is one of the most extensively studied supplements in sports science, with a robust body of research suggesting it can support exercise performance, particularly during high-intensity, short-duration activities like resistance training and sprinting. Studies indicate that creatine supplementation may help enhance muscle strength, promote lean muscle growth, and support recovery between bouts of exercise. Beyond its well-established role in physical performance, emerging research has explored creatine's potential benefits for brain health and cognitive function, with some studies suggesting it may offer neuroprotective properties, particularly under conditions of sleep deprivation or mental fatigue. Creatine monohydrate remains the most widely researched and commonly recommended form.
Compare this supplementResearch suggests that creatine supplementation may offer modest but meaningful benefits for certain aspects of cogni...
View studies →Research suggests that creatine supplementation is one of the more consistently supported ergogenic aids in the sport...
View studies →Research suggests that creatine supplementation shows meaningful neuroprotective potential across a range of conditio...
View studies →Research suggests that creatine supplementation may support brain health and cognitive function, particularly in cont...
View studies →Research suggests that creatine supplementation may support muscle strength and growth, particularly when combined wi...
View studies →These are commonly referenced dosage ranges for this supplement. They are not medical recommendations. Always consult a healthcare provider before supplementing.
| Form | Dose range | Frequency | Studied for | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Powder | 5–10 g | Daily | Brain health, cognitive function, and neuroprotection | Doses in this range used in trials examining cognitive performance, traumatic brain injury, and neurological conditions |
| Powder | 20–25 g | Daily | Exercise performance, muscle strength and growth — loading phase (typically 5–7 days) | Common loading protocol in clinical trials, often split into 4–5 doses per day |
| Powder | 3–5 g | Daily | Exercise performance, muscle strength and growth — maintenance phase | Widely established in RCTs as standard maintenance dose post-loading or as standalone daily supplementation |
| Powder | 0.1 g | Daily | General dosing scaled to body weight (per kg); used in precision dosing protocols in research | Per-kg dosing (e.g. 0.1 g/kg/day) referenced in several RCTs for both performance and health outcomes |
| Powder | 2–3 g | Daily | Long-term maintenance for older adults; muscle preservation and cognitive support | Lower maintenance doses studied in aging populations for sarcopenia and neuroprotection outcomes |