What is Creatine

Creatine is an amino acid derivative that is viewed as indispensable for the skeletal muscles. This naturally-occurring compound is synthesized in the liver and plays a vital role in the production of adenosine triphosphate. While creatine is synthesized in the body from three essential amino acids called arginine, methionine and glycine, some of it also comes through the dietary sources. A substantial portion of creatine is stored in the skeletal muscles. Since this amino acid derivative helps build up muscle strength and muscle mass, those who perform intensive workouts, or are trying to build up a muscular body, often use creatine supplements. Creatine pills definitely figure in the list of effective bodybuilding supplements, but before you start using these supplements, it would be better to find out more about creatine effects on the body. In this article, we will discuss what is creatine used for, and what are the benefits and side effects of creatine.

Uses of Creatine

Those who indulge in sports, or high energy-consuming physical activities, can get the much-needed adenosine triphosphate through the consumption of foods that are rich sources of creatine. Since the dietary sources of this amino acid derivative include meat and fish, those who follow a vegetarian diet might benefit from the use of creatine pills. Creatine supplements are available in the form of phosphate, citrate and monohydrate salts. Though creatine is mainly used for enhancing one's muscle strength and building up stamina for intensive workouts, there are other benefits of creatine. Due to its ability to provide energy to the muscles, it can help in treating neuromuscular disorders. People suffering from muscle weakness, muscular dystrophy, stroke, congestive heart failure, Parkinson's disease and Lou Gehrig's disease might also benefit by using creatine supplements. It can help fight muscle fatigue and also helps in recovering from injuries.

How Does Creatine Work

Creatine undoubtedly helps in building lean body mass. It basically provides phosphate that is required for the regeneration of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). When one indulges in high intensity muscle activities, phosphate molecules are used up for energy. Since creatine acts as the supplier of phosphate, one can get the energy needed for workouts or activities such as running, sprinting, weightlifting and so on. However, excess of anything is bad, holds true here as well. High levels of creatinine, which is a by-product of creatine, might be a warning sign for kidney problems. Since this waste product has to be filtered through the kidneys, the kidneys might get overburdened. This could even give rise to kidney stones. Therefore, people with liver and kidney diseases must refrain from using synthesized creatine. Dehydration is also one of the harmful side effects of creatine. Since this amino acid derivative is known for drawing water from other areas of the body into the muscles, it can cause dehydration. If not taken in the right way, it can also cause muscle cramps, diarrhea, nausea, bloating and loss of appetite. Creatine monohydrate is believed to be the best form of synthesized creatine, but overdose can also give rise to side effects. If you are planning to use creatine supplements to increase muscle mass, you must do so after finding out all about creatine dangers. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Though creatine is a potent source of ATP, it must be taken as per the guidelines. Since creatine draws water from the rest of the body, the user must stay well-hydrated. If you are really keen to take creatine pills for muscle building, make it a point to learn about its side effects. Before you buy creatine pills, do go through the reviews to make a well-informed decision.