When most people hear creatine, they think of bodybuilders, gyms and bigger muscles. But creatine is actually one of the most researched supplements available, and we’re discovering that its potential benefits may extend well beyond the gym.
Creatine helps our cells rapidly produce energy. While most of the body’s creatine is stored in our muscles, it also plays an important role in other high-energy tissues, including the brain.
Strength, Muscle and Healthy Ageing
Creatine is best known for improving strength, exercise performance and, when combined with weights, supporting increases in muscle mass.
This becomes increasingly important as we age. Maintaining muscle helps support our metabolism, mobility, balance and independence, making strength an important part of not just living longer, but living well for longer.
What About Your Brain?
This is where newer creatine research gets particularly interesting.
Recent research suggests creatine may support aspects of memory, attention and cognitive processing, particularly when the brain is under increased demand, such as during periods of inadequate sleep.
Researchers are also investigating creatine’s potential role in healthy ageing, cellular energy, inflammation and intestinal health.
My Two Favourite Creatine Supplements
My two favourites are both from Orthoplex and available at Karrinyup Wellness Centre.
Orthoplex Creatine Clinical provides 5g of ultramicronised creatine monohydrate per scoop. It’s my choice if you simply want a quality creatine supplement.
Orthoplex SarcoCare combines creatine with protein and HMB to provide additional nutritional support for maintaining muscle mass and strength as we age.
And there’s another important consideration with SarcoCare. It is genuinely the yummiest chocolate-flavoured supplement I have ever had!
Creatine isn’t just for bodybuilders anymore. From strength, muscle and exercise performance to emerging research into brain and healthy ageing benefits, it’s a supplement worth knowing more about.
If you’d like to know whether creatine may be appropriate for you, speak with one of our practitioners at Karrinyup Wellness Centre.
