Powdered creatine supplements are effective at boosting your energy production. Bodybuilders, researchers, and medical experts have tested this ingredient several times, and each has produced positive results. This natural substance can enhance your performance. It promises great bursts of energy so you can train harder and build more muscle mass.
However, just because that it is proven to be effective does not mean that you should use this dietary supplement willy nilly. If you are a budding bodybuilder, the first thing that you have to remember is that never use any product without researching about its benefits and risks. This can also be said with any type of food and beverage. If you haven’t tried taking creatine before, here is a handy guide that features useful facts about this substance.
1. Creatine makes you gain weight faster
Don’t worry; if you exercise regularly, you will gain muscle mass instead of fat. During the initial stages of your supplementation, weight gain happens because more water is absorbed by the body. Afterwards, your following gains will be caused by your muscles. Since the substance gives you energy bursts, you can increase your workload and boost your muscle mass in the process. This happens because the substance is osmotically active in nature. It helps your muscle cells absorb water so it can synthesize proteins faster.
2. Will it affect your kidneys?
Thankfully, this health supplement is proven to be safe. That is the reason why a lot of trainers and fitness experts prefer to use this product. However, you should still take creatine in moderation. In addition, make sure that you do not have any kidney problems just to be sure.
3. Does it mean that it has no downside?
With all the information that you have learned so far, you are probably itching to buy a tub of creatine powder. But before you do that, you should finish reading this article first.
Yes, this substance is effective and safe. However, it does not that it is 100% risk-free. Just like any other product, using it in excess can pose dangers to your health.
If you can gain muscle mass without using it, there is no reason for you to add creatine to your diet. In addition, it is not advisable for athletes before 18 years old to drink this. During the childhood and adolescent phase, your muscles and bones are still under development. Further research is still needed in order to confirm its effectiveness on a child’s growing body.
In addition, make sure that you do not over exert yourself during training. Even though you have the energy to pull 3 to 5 reps, your body may not be able to cope with the sudden increase of your workload, resulting to torn muscles.
If you can share other useful weightlifting tips, feel free to post them in the comments section!
Maisie Blair is a young mum of a 3 year-old toddler, living outside Edinburgh in Scotland.