Are Creatine Supplements Right for You?

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.

 

Should I Take Creatine?

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.

Is Creatine Safe?

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.

Read More about Weight Gain Guide

 



Related Articles