Creatine Supplements - Build Muscle Mass & Gain Strength

Studies are proving that creatine supplementation is showing to affect the user positively with multiple gains at once.

Not only does it promote lessening of the 'burn' effect of cardio and weights which is build of lactic acid, the trash our muscles leave after using is fuel - but it also promotes speed and endurance as well.

Vegetarians, especially Vegans seem to show a considerably better result most likely due to the lack of meat in the diet. It seems creatine is found in meats and it is not a steroid like many mistakenly think!

Creatine has come a long way since the days of monohydrates and citrates. There are many types of creatine choices to cater to everyone and help avoid bloat or cramp side effects which can occur with some people on certain creatines and this is very individual.
I have heard people on forums criticize monohydrate as a bloater and cramper but yet I have never had an issue and found it to work best for me vs the other products on the market.

Serums are available, flavored powders and mixes with other proteins such as glutamine.
Brands are not so much what you need to concern with as is the nutrient label. Make sure to read about the product as you want to try and research the brand well, avoid added sugars and carbs. Look for online reviews and see what others have said about the product. Also keep in mind you are different and may or may not have similar results, but use this info only as that, info, let trial be your true indicator!

Not everyone needs creatine and by all means, those who prefer to avoid added supplements and rather get their nutritional needs through food then that is fine although tough, food is not made as it used to be! Also, when cooking a meat, which is necessary, you destroy the creatine in the meat.

For those who wish to work on recreational gains then creatine may be a great addition to boost your success. This can help you get to the miles you need in the time you need for that marathon or may help ease your power lifting practice. Some find it eases weight training helping you get your consistent workouts done and showing great muscle gains.

There are those who claim no gains from creatine, again it is really up to you to try it out and see how you like it. It is not a drug, will not hurt you and taken within reason is as safe as vitamins. Now yes, some vitamins taken out of reason can be toxic so WITHIN REASON is the key phrase.

I personally do believe creatine to be an excellent addition to your diet and a great supplement when applied to the right person and right needs. I do not feel it is addictive, scary, and destructive nor a health hazard but unfortunately due to the media, there is a scare throughout parents when teens consider its use. Now if you don't use it before 18 I don't think it's a huge downfall but I also think parents fearing this product is ridiculous and we really need to educate!! How young is too young? Again relative to the individual and family but I know some who start their kids and supplements at young ages due to needs, things like multivitamins and cod liver oils? Creatine is not far off in classification. I think teens is a good time to start if they are interested, if not then let them look into it as they feel needed, and the older the better so that it is their decision. I do know many fitness experts who give their kids protein shakes blended with wonderful fruits, flax seed, protein, glutamine and creatine. I feel this is perfectly acceptable and much better than a McDonalds flurry!! I think safer to err on the healthy side.

By Linda Cusmano