Global Sports: Creatine Questions, Everything You Need Answered

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Creatine Questions, Everything You Need Answered

By Gunny Jones

Creatine - what is it? One of the most popular sports supplements today is Creatine. It is used by many athletes, body builders and sports people. It is an energy replenisher made naturally in our bodies, manufactured in the kidneys, liver and pancreas and secreted into blood, and pumped to muscle tissues. The chemical name is methylguanido-acetic acid, produced from amino acids, methionine, glycine and arginine.

Does creatine work? Well no supplement 'works' per se; supplements merely 'supplement'; but, yes, creatine, when consumed in correct doses, will help the individual receive the desired effects. Creatine is probably the most scientifically researched sports supplement ever, providing strong evidence that it helps improve performance. However, a few individuals do report that they have not noticed any notable improvements from using creatine.

What does creatine do? Creatine has a number of major functions as a sports supplement. All of these functions revolve around its function as an energy replenisher through it forming the creatine phosphate molecule.

ATP is replenished by Creatine. When broken down the molecule releases energy for the muscle to contract. When used, ATP must be replenished by re-acquiring phosphates. CP acts as a transporter for phosphate. CP removes its phosphate to ATP freeing creatine to form the bi-product creatinine for excretion from the body.

Numerous studies have demonstrated that the more creatine that is present in muscle cells, up to a maximum storage level, the more efficiently ATP can be replenished, and, hence more ATP is available for energy. Thus creatine allows you to have more energy to help lift heavier weights, train harder and at higher intensity.

Creatine loading - what is that? This is when a person takes a high dose of creatine for the first few days/weeks. After this period, a lower maintenance dose can be taken as the creatine has now built up in your system. A few studies have been conducted and prove this method to be most beneficial as it achieves a higher concentration of muscle CP than by taking only a maintenance dose alone. The following loading phase is often considered to be the most cost effective and optimal. 10g per day - Week One 5g per day - Week Two & Three 3g per day - Thereafter as maintenance

When will the effects of Creatine become noticeable? This varies from person to person. Often with the cell volumisation effects, you should see an increase in your weight after only the first week. You will begin to feel fuller in your muscles, more energy at the gym and will be able to lift and rep heavier weights within 1-2 weeks. Size and strength gains from creatine will be found within the first month of use.

What should my fluid intake be when taking creatine? It is impossible to put an exact figure on this. A good water intake is crucial for your health and athletic performance, irrespective of creatine use. Drink regularly and plenty daily, usually at least 2 litres per day. Thirst is not a good sign.

Can you drink alcohol while using creatine? A small amount of alcohol consumed whilst using creatine is ok, as long as it is not too regular. The main problem with alcohol is that it can be a diuretic at higher intakes, so if you do drink make sure you drink plenty of fluid to keep hydrated afterwards.

What are the side effects of creatine? Creatine monohydrate has been shown in numerous studies to be, safe, even in large quantities, nevertheless there are some side effects of creatine which you need to be aware of before commencing its use. Headaches and Nausea have been reported but this can easily be rectified by drinking plenty of water. At least 2 litres every day.

Is it for me? I hope after reading this article you can now answer this question for yourself. Creatine is probably the most researched of all fitness supplements and is often praised by many sports people of different backgrounds and definitely has a role in body building. Although, despite all the hype around creatine, it is not a magic supplement. You can still build an impressive physique without ever having any. A good diet and training regime are still essential to meet your goals. It is definitely worth giving creatine monohydrate a try. You will then be able to see for yourself, the positive results from supplementing with creatine.

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