Creatine is a source of energy by skeletal muscle where 95% of it is located. Naturally produced in the human body from amino acids, primarily in the kidney and liver, it is conveyed in the blood for use by the muscles. As a supplement, it is used by athletes and bodybuilders and other people who want to gain muscle mass. As an athletic aid, it can accelerate fat loss and increase high-intensity performance.
Creatine can be obtained from a high-protein diet as its major source being primarily meat, beef, pork and fish such as salmon and tuna or herring. A pound of meat contains two grams of creatine while fish, especially herring, three to four grams per one pound. Cranberries are also said to be rich in creatine. The other foods which are rich in creatine include cod, which contains 1.35 grams per pound, and milk, at 0.05 gram per pound.
When you use creatine supplements, there are some benefits which you stand to gain, among which are (a) extra energy to allow you to train or compete harder and longer in the activity, (b) volume muscles which strengthen your muscle cells, and (c) cushion to lactic acid to delay fatigue of the muscles that will, therefore allow you to work longer or harder on any field of physical sports activities such as bodybuilding, hockey, basketball, baseball, football, soccer, rowing and wrestling. Already, creatine supplements have been used by bodybuilders, power lifters, a number of team sports, and endurance athletes like runners and bikers.
Creatine supplements take a number of forms. The traditional form is powder, which is usually a stand-alone product that is mixed with cold water, and consumed. It can also be mixed with flavoring powders. Current improvements in technology have resulted in the production of a creatine supplement in liquid form which can easily be absorbed by the body and with effects that can be experienced or felt faster. In capsule form, it can be taken alongside other supplements like vitamins, minerals and amino acids. To increase its potency or athletic performance, it can also be Creatine Blend, which is a combination of various forms of creatine and other supplements. Properly taken, creatine is essential to good health as it lowers the possibility of having neurological and psychiatric disorders such as depression, dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease; provides an effective anti-oxidant; prevents coronary heart ailment; combats muscle fatigue and empowers functioning of the brain for improved memory and ability to solve problems; and improves the user’s intelligent quotient level. Most importantly, it improves lean muscle mass, which is a goal of most athletes.
While the creatine supplement is needed by those who are ready to have added energy or want to build more muscles faster and lose estra fat roll, they are advised against its possible side effects like diarrhea, rash, difficulty breathing, vomiting, severe muscle cramps or pain, dizziness, high blood pressure and weight gain. Although some of these side effects can be treated easily, the affected users are further advised to report the cases to their physician or any health care professional.
