Creatine
Creatine is an organic nitrogenous acid that naturally occurs in vertebrates. It plays a crucial role in energy production for all body cells, particularly muscle cells, by enhancing the formation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The discovery of creatine is attributed to scientist Michel Eugène in 1832. In the human bloodstream, creatine constitutes about one percent and is distributed across various organs, including the brain, muscles, testes, liver, and kidneys.
Risks Associated with Creatine
While creatine is widely known for its performance-enhancing capabilities, it also poses several risks, including:
- Muscle Disorders: Despite its potential to improve functional performance, creatine can lead to muscle atrophy in numerous cases.
- Cancer: A chemical reaction occurs when creatine is mixed with protein and sugar at high temperatures (above 148 degrees Celsius), leading to the creation of heterocyclic amines (HCAs). HCAs are known to cause cancer in animals and may also increase cancer risk in humans, including colorectal, breast, and prostate cancers.
- Testicular Cancer: Males who primarily rely on creatine-containing supplements are at a higher risk of developing testicular cancer.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Supplementation during these periods may result in conditions such as cerebral palsy and other neurological issues.
- Weight Gain: This may be attributed to excess water retention in the muscles.
- Gastrointestinal Disturbances: Side effects may include stomach upset, diarrhea, and dizziness.
- High Blood Pressure and Liver Disease: These health issues might arise from excessive water consumption related to creatine use.
- Drug Interactions: Creatine can interact adversely with various medications, causing potential kidney damage (renal failure). It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist before combining these supplements with any other medications. Some problematic drugs include:
- Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) and Naproxen (Aleve), which cause non-steroidal anti-inflammatory reactions.
- Caffeine combined with creatine can heighten the risk of dehydration and lead to kidney damage.
- Diuretics, such as furosemide (Lasix).
- Cimetidine (Tagamet).
- Probenecid.
Creatine Supplements
Creatine supplements are primarily utilized to enhance athletic performance by serving as an energy source for muscles and the skeletal system. In 1912, researchers from Harvard University, Otto Folin and Phyli Glover Dennis, discovered evidence supporting the idea that these supplements increase muscle strength. By the late 1920s, creatine was identified as a crucial component in the metabolic processes of skeletal muscles. Naturally found in vertebrates, creatine is also known to improve memory and cognitive function. These supplements are available in various forms, the most common of which include:
- Ester Ethyl.
- Creatine Monohydrate, marketed under the brand name KRE-Alkalyn.
- Hydrochloride salt (HCl).
- Magnesium creatine chelate.
- Malate: composed of three molecules of creatine monohydrate.
- Nitrate.
- Gluconate.
- Micronized forms.