What is Creatine?
Creatine is an organic compound that helps produce energy in the body. It serves as a supply of energy that helps sustain high performance of the muscular system especially during exercise. Half the body’s creatine stores come from high protein foods you consume such as red meat, seafood, and animal milk. While the other half is naturally produced by the body’s liver, kidneys, and pancreas. For those over 50, creatine can be particularly beneficial in maintaining muscle mass.
What are the Benefits of Creatine?
Creatine is one of the most researched supplements and has both physical and cognitive benefits.
Physical Benefits:
Increased Energy: After ingested, the body converts creatine into creatine phosphate which directly aids in ATP production. ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the chemical compound that allows us to complete our daily activities and exercise, making creatine essential as people reach 50 and beyond.
Increased Muscle Growth and Recovery: Creatine helps increase muscle growth and recovery by stimulating satellite cells in muscles which help heal the micro tears caused by exercise.
Increased Anabolic Hormones: Anabolic hormones such as insulin, human growth hormone, estrogen, and testosterone all play a role in tissue repair and growth.
Boost Water Content in Muscles: Improved hydration may increase muscle growth and decrease the likelihood of dehydration and muscle cramps.
Cognitive Benefits:
Improved short term memory and Processing Speed: Adequate amounts of creatine allow the brain to perform at a higher capacity.
Reasoning: Streamlined cognitive function allows for heightened reasoning.
Neuroprotection: Creatine helps maintain cellular energy homeostasis through production of ATP, helping prevent neuron damage in the brain, an asset during aging post-50.
Guest blogger – Graeme Tsai
