The health benefits of creatine include strength and muscle enhancement, improved bone, brain and heart health, and help fighting certain neuromuscular conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and muscular dystrophy.
Despite some advantages, myths and misunderstandings about creatine's safety profile prevail as experts work to clear up misinformation. Among the most common misconceptions is that creatine is dangerous to take as a supplement. While that can be true for some people or in very high doses, under most conditions, supplemental creatine is considered safe.
Creatine is an amino acid that's produced in the kidneys, liver and pancreas, and is stored in the muscles for strength and energy. Beyond the natural production of the amino acid, about half the body's supply of creatine comes from the foods one eats. The richest dietary sources of creatine are red meat and seafood, "so people who consume limited animal proteins, such as vegans or vegetarians, may benefit from supplementation," Tara Schmidt, MEd, lead registered dietitian for the Mayo Clinic Diet, previously explained.
The supplement is also extremely popular among athletes and bodybuilders because it supports muscle strength and performance, especially during exercise and other physical activity. Once a divisive topic, creatine as a dietary supplement is now considered one of the most proven dietary supplements available.
