I’ve been using creatine daily for quite some time, and the benefits have been clear both mentally and physically. While many people associate creatine with muscle growth and athletic performance, it’s also a powerful cognitive enhancer. Creatine helps by increasing ATP production, which is critical not only for muscles but also for brain function. Studies have shown that creatine can improve memory, cognitive flexibility, and reduce mental fatigue, especially during mentally demanding tasks(Ask Huberman Lab)(Ask Huberman Lab).
This makes it an ideal supplement for anyone who needs to stay sharp and focused throughout the day.
Cognitive Benefits: Staying Sharp
One of the main reasons I take creatine is for its cognitive benefits. Creatine works by boosting the brain’s energy supply, which supports frontal cortical circuits responsible for mood regulation, focus, and mental clarity(Brainflow). Andrew Huberman, a prominent neuroscientist, has discussed how creatine plays a role in improving cognitive tasks, especially in those with lower baseline creatine levels, such as vegetarians(
Podclips). For me, the increased mental stamina has been invaluable during long workdays, helping me stay productive and mentally alert without feeling drained.
Research backs up these claims as well. A 2021 review highlighted that creatine supplementation, particularly at doses of 5 grams per day, supports both physical and mental functions, improving not only strength and endurance but also mental processing speed and working memory(Podclips)(Ask Huberman Lab). It’s this dual benefit that makes creatine a cornerstone in my daily routine.
Physical Performance: Powering Through Workouts
On the physical side, creatine has long been celebrated for its ability to enhance athletic performance, particularly in strength training. It increases phosphocreatine stores in the muscles, providing extra energy during short, intense bursts of activity like lifting weights. For me, this translates into being able to push myself harder in the gym, lift heavier weights, and recover faster between sets(Ask Huberman Lab).
Not only does it help with muscle growth, but creatine also reduces muscle soreness by improving recovery. This is crucial for anyone who trains regularly, as it allows for more consistent progress without feeling burned out after tough workouts. I’ve found that since incorporating creatine, my workout endurance has improved, and I can recover faster between sessions.
The Right Form of Creatine for You
At Nature’s Storehouse, we stock NOW branded creatine, which is available in both capsule and powder forms. While both forms offer the same benefits, I prefer the capsules for convenience—no need to mix powders, and it’s easier to incorporate into my routine. However, if you prefer adding it to a post-workout shake or smoothie, the powder is a great option too. Regardless of the form you choose, daily supplementation of 5 grams has been shown to effectively boost both mental and physical performance(Brainflow)(Ask Huberman Lab).
Beyond the Gym: Holistic Health Support
Creatine’s benefits extend beyond the gym and mental sharpness. Emerging research suggests that creatine may have neuroprotective properties and could potentially help with mood regulation and even the treatment of mild depression(Brainflow). While more studies are needed to solidify these claims, the potential benefits for long-term brain health make it an even more appealing supplement to include in my daily regimen. For example, creatine’s role in maintaining mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress has been linked to protecting the brain from age-related decline (Ask Huberman Lab).
In conclusion, creatine is far more than just a muscle-building supplement. Its role in supporting cognitive function, reducing fatigue, and boosting physical performance makes it one of the most versatile and effective supplements available. Whether you’re looking to lift heavier, stay focused at work, or simply feel more energized throughout the day, creatine is a great addition to your routine. Stop by Nature’s Storehouse and check out our NOW creatine options to see how it can support your health and performance goals.
Breaking the Myth: Creatine Isn’t Just for Powerlifters or Steroid Users
Creatine has unfortunately garnered an unfair reputation in some circles, often dismissed as a supplement only for bodybuilders, powerlifters, or even those who use anabolic steroids. This perception couldn’t be further from the truth. While it’s true that creatine is popular among athletes for its muscle-building and performance-enhancing benefits, its utility extends far beyond that niche.
One of the reasons creatine has been linked to bodybuilders and powerlifters is due to its ability to help increase muscle mass and strength, making it an appealing supplement for those involved in resistance training. Creatine enhances the body’s phosphocreatine stores, allowing for more ATP to be produced during high-intensity activities like lifting heavy weights(Ask Huberman Lab). However, this function benefits not only athletes but anyone engaging in physical activity, from endurance athletes to those simply trying to improve general fitness.
The association with steroids often arises from misunderstandings about how creatine works. Unlike steroids, which alter hormone levels to promote muscle growth, creatine simply provides more energy to your muscles, allowing for better performance and recovery. It’s a naturally occurring compound found in foods like meat and fish, and your body also produces it naturally. In fact, a large body of research has confirmed that creatine is a safe and effective supplement for enhancing physical performance without the harmful side effects associated with steroids(
Podclips).
Additionally, the cognitive benefits of creatine—such as improving memory and reducing mental fatigue—further distance it from the steroid comparison. Studies have shown that creatine supplementation can enhance brain function by boosting ATP levels, especially in individuals who don’t consume much creatine through their diet, like vegetarians(Ask Huberman Lab). This makes creatine not just a tool for muscle gain but also a powerful aid in promoting overall brain health and energy levels.
Creatine’s versatility makes it a valuable supplement for anyone, not just powerlifters or bodybuilders. It can support a wide range of goals, from mental sharpness to improved recovery and energy, without any association with the negative connotations surrounding performance-enhancing drugs.
If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to ask me about Creatine!
Thanks for reading
Clark Maine!
