These days it seems that more and more people are looking to
supplements to improve their health and maximize their fitness
programs. Creatine
supplements have been among the most popular, but it is important
for fitness enthusiasts to weigh the pros and cons of this unique
dietary supplement.
Creatine supplements are most closely associated with the world
of bodybuilding, and one of the chief benefits of this
supplement is that it helps to deliver higher levels of testosterone
to the muscles. This
increased testosterone can help bodybuilders and other fitness
enthusiasts build greater muscle mass in a shorter period of time,
resulting in greater strength and flexibility.
Creatine supplements can also help athletes of all disciplines to
exercise longer, resulting in a more effective workout.
This unique supplement also helps to reduce recovery time
following exercise, allowing those athletes to work out more
frequently.
Of course no product is without its disadvantages, and creatine is
certainly no exception.
Some recent research into the health effects of creatine have
suggested that there may be some short term and long term side
effects, and it is important for athletes to weigh the benefits of
creatine against any potential risks.
Some of the short term side effects of creatine supplements
have included diarrhea and stomach upset, as well as changes in
mood. These mood swings
can be particular common and troublesome when creatine is used by
young people.
More worrisome are the possible long term effects of creatine,
including possible kidney damage.
This potential for kidney toxicity has caused many physicians
and personal trainers to advise their patients not to use creatine
supplements to excess, and to avoid using these types of supplements
for the long term.
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