Creatine and Kidney Health
Many athletes and other people who work out take creatine, which is a very popular fitness supplement, to boost their strength and performance. Even though creatine is popular, a lot of individuals are scared that it affects the kidneys. Let’s use facts that science backs up to clear things up.
What is creatine?
Creatine is something that is naturally found in our muscles and in foods like fish and meat. People commonly take it as a supplement since it gives them energy when they work out hard.
Myth 1: Creatine damages the kidneys
A number of studies suggest that creatine is safe for healthy people when taken in the right amounts. People often worry about damaging their kidneys when they use medications incorrectly or when they already have health problems.
Myth 2: Creatine causes you lose water
Creatine doesn’t make you lose water; it puts water into muscle cells. Even if creatine doesn’t make you dehydrated, it’s always important to drink adequate water.
Myth 3: Creatine is only for people who do weights
Creatine is not just for folks who carry heavy things. It helps older individuals maintain their muscles healthy and players in sports like sprinting and football.
Myth 4: It works straight away
It takes time for creatine to completely fill up muscles. After using it every day for 2–4 weeks, most people notice a huge change.
Myth 5: Creatine is a type of steroid.
This is not accurate at all. Creatine is a molecule that occurs naturally; it is not a steroid or hormone.
The Bottom Line
Creatine is safe and works for most healthy persons. If you have kidney difficulties or other health issues, you should talk to your doctor before taking any supplements.