Creatine is one of the most popular supplements used in the world of sports and fitness. Its anabolic and muscle regeneration properties are widely known. However, in recent years, there has been growing interest in its effects not only on the body but also on the mind. What effects can creatine supplementation have on brain function, concentration and memory? Let’s find out.
Creatine – what exactly is it?
Creatine is an organic chemical compound produced naturally in the liver, pancreas and kidneys. It is stored mainly in the muscles, but also in the brain, where it plays an important role in maintaining the energy balance of neurons. It is often taken as a supplement, most commonly as creatine monohydrate powder, which is characterised by high bioavailability.
The compound is responsible for the transfer of phosphate groups, which translates into the regeneration of ATP, the primary source of energy in cells. It is this function that makes it an interesting support for the nervous system as well.
How does creatine affect the brain?
Although the brain accounts for only 2% of body weight, it consumes as much as 20% of the body’s total energy. The high energy cost of mental activity means that any metabolic support is of great importance here. The effect of creatine on brain function stems from its ability to store and quickly deliver energy in the form of phosphocreatine.
In this way, creatine can improve:
- information processing speed,
- concentration and focus,
- working and long-term memory,
- the brain’s resistance to fatigue,
- functioning in states of stress or hypoxia.
It should be added that many studies have shown a positive effect of creatine on cognitive function in people with energy deficits, such as vegetarians, seniors and people suffering from neurodegenerative diseases.
The therapeutic potential of creatine – what does the research say?
More and more scientific studies confirm that creatine may have a real impact not only on cognitive function, but also on therapeutic processes in the context of neurodegenerative diseases. Promising results have been obtained, among others, in diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Huntington’s disease. In these conditions, the brain shows a significantly increased demand for energy and, at the same time, an impaired ability to produce it. Creatine supplementation can therefore act as an ‘energy buffer’, supporting the functioning of nerve cells under conditions of metabolic stress.
Creatine is also being studied as a support for patients with traumatic brain injury and in cases of brain hypoxia, e.g. after a stroke. Preclinical studies indicate that the administration of creatine before and after an ischaemic episode may reduce the extent of damage and accelerate neurological recovery.
Interestingly, creatine supplementation also shows potential in psychoneurology as an adjunct to the treatment of depression resistant to standard pharmacotherapy. Creatine affects the level of energy available in cells, which can modulate neurotransmitter activity and improve mood. For this reason, it is becoming an increasingly popular ingredient in supplements designed to support mental health.
Who can benefit from creatine as a cognitive aid?
Supplementation can be beneficial not only for athletes, but also for:
- schoolchildren and students during periods of intensive study,
- people performing demanding mental work (programmers, analysts, doctors),
- older people whose natural creatine production is declining,
- people experiencing mental fatigue or burnout.
In some studies, creatine also supported people with depression and affective disorders by increasing energy levels and reducing symptoms associated with chronic fatigue.
Creatine supplementation should be carefully considered and consulted with a doctor or clinical dietitian, especially for people with chronic diseases, taking medication or with kidney problems.
The properties of creatine in a neurological context
Although creatine is mainly known for its sports applications, its properties in the context of brain health are equally promising. In addition to providing energy support, it also has neuroprotective effects. What does this mean? It protects cells from oxidative damage and supports their regeneration.
What’s more, creatine stabilises cell membranes, supports calcium metabolism and improves communication between neurons. In the long term, this can mean better cognitive function and a reduced risk of neurodegenerative disorders.
In the context of supporting cognitive function, it is recommended to take 3-5 grams of creatine per day. The most popular option is creatine monohydrate powder, which is easy to dissolve and well absorbed. Regular use is important to maintain adequate levels of phosphocreatine in the brain.
There is no need to implement a so-called ‘loading phase’; systematic intake with meals is sufficient. It is also important to stay hydrated, as creatine increases water retention in cells.
Industrial use and wholesale purchases of creatine
If you run a supplement company or are planning to introduce creatine to your range, choose a proven delivery method. On the FDCM.eu sales platform, you will find creatine in wholesale form – it can be purchased in bulk packaging (e.g. 25 kg bags).
This way, you can provide your customers with the highest quality product, without any downtime in your warehouse and with full control over the supply chain.
Creatine – support not only for muscles
Although creatine has been present in the sports environment for many years, today there is more and more talk about its effect on the nervous system. Creatine and the brain is a topic that is worth keeping in mind. For companies developing their supplement range, this means new opportunities to reach a wider audience – not only athletes, but also people looking for support for concentration, memory and mental resilience.
Creatine supplementation is a simple and effective way to support brain health at the cellular level. Combined with a proper diet, sleep and exercise, it provides real support for intellectual performance. Creatine is not just a supplement for athletes – more and more studies are pointing to its impact on the brain and cognitive function. Find out how it supports memory, concentration and mental resilience.
