Creatine has an established reputation as an effective supplement for individuals wanting to build muscle and improve performance. Accelerating gains in muscle size and strength, creatine is frequently used by those who want to maximize their exercise regimens. While popular, some people are concerned about the possible side effects of using creatine.
Increased Water Weight
The only real side effect noted about creatine is increased water weight. Increased water weight may make you appear and feel bloated as if you had just eaten a large meal.
Crampings and Spasms
Some individuals have complained of increased muscle cramping, spasms and pulled muscles when using creatine. However, this has not been confirmed by medical studies.
Other Noted Side Effects
Some other alleged side effects of creatine usage include gastrointestinal distress, seizures, nausea, ligament strains and diarrhea. However, these are just individual reports not backed by scientific research.
Worsening of Existing Kidney Disorders
For individuals with existing kidney or renal disorders, using creatine may cause renal problems because of the extra stress placed on the kidneys when using this supplement. It is advised that if you currently have existing kidney disorders, you should not use creatine.
Long-Term Side Effects
Concern over the long-term health effects of creatine are on the rise. Studies that examined the usage of creatine for up to 5 years showed no long-term side effects of using creatine as a supplement. However, while no long-term side effects have been discovered, this does not mean that they do not exist.
The Bottom Line
Extensive research has been conducted on the effects of using creatine. Significant research has shown beneficial advantages to using this supplement but no real risks to health unless some pre-existing conditions are present. However, this does not mean there are no effects of using creatine, and more research is needed.
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