Creatine is a naturally occurring chemical that provides energy to muscles. Creatine supplements in capsule form are popular with athletes. Creatine capsules have benefits on mental function, cardiovascular and nervous systems, and muscular dystrophy. Adverse effects include increased water weight, gastrointestinal problems, dehydration, and high blood pressure. Contaminants in synthetic creatine can cause adverse effects.
Creatine is a naturally occurring chemical found in the human body. One of its purposes is to help provide energy to the muscles. Although natural forms of creatine can also be found in certain fish and meats, many athletes turn to creatine supplements in capsule form to help improve their performance. Creatine capsules are one of the most popular forms of synthetic creatine.
The discovery of the benefits of creatine sparked many scientific studies, which resulted in the creation of creatine monohydrate. Creatine capsules contain a micronized form of creatine monohydrate, which means that the supplement is ground very finely so that the chemical is absorbed more efficiently. Creatine ethyl ester capsules are believed to provide an even more absorbable form.
Creatine is naturally produced by the kidneys, liver, and pancreas. It is then transported to skeletal muscles and converted to a form called creatine phosphate. Muscles can use this to replenish adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a compound that muscles use as a source of energy. Creatine capsules and other forms of creatine supplements have become quite popular as athletes have discovered their benefits and have begun using them to gain a competitive advantage.
While muscle enhancement is a well-known benefit of creatine capsules, other benefits have been discovered as well. It is believed that creatine might help people who are at risk for problems with the cardiovascular and nervous systems, particularly the elderly. Creatine capsules may also have benefits on mental function, particularly in people at risk for Alzheimer’s disease. As of 2010, research is ongoing to assess the possible benefits of creatine in the treatment of muscular dystrophy. Furthermore, the loss of muscle mass common in aging can also be treated with creatine capsules.
There have been many reports of adverse effects associated with taking creatine capsules. Among these are increased water weight, gastrointestinal problems such as cramps or diarrhea, and dehydration. It is also possible that creatine may contribute to high blood pressure, but this is likely an indirect effect related to water retention, as creatine draws water into the muscles. Gastrointestinal distress can be avoided by taking micronized creatine capsules because they are more easily absorbed than other forms of the supplement.
Adverse side effects attributed to creatine supplementation could be the result of the presence of harmful contaminants. Such contaminants can be found in synthetic creatine which is produced more cheaply than higher grade creatine products. It has been found that most of the adverse effects of creatine can be avoided by purchasing higher quality supplements and taking them as directed.
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