Creatine supplements can boost exercise performance by increasing energy for high-intensity activities and speeding up recovery. They support muscle growth, reduce the risk of muscle injuries, and help with hydration and cramping. Additionally, creatine may improve brain function, making it a valuable supplement for aiding both physical and cognitive performance.
Creatine typically begins to show effects within 1 to 4 weeks, depending on the method used and individual factors. If you take a standard daily dose of 3 to 5 grams, you might notice increased strength and endurance in about 2 to 4 weeks. Alternatively, using a loading phase of 20 to 25 grams daily for 7 days, followed by a maintenance dose, can produce results faster, often within 5 to 7 days.
Creatine doesn’t raise testosterone levels. Studies show that while creatine can increase DHT (a form of testosterone) and growth hormone during exercise, it doesn’t affect resting testosterone levels.
Creatine supplements are not specifically intended for weight loss. While creatine can aid in muscle growth, which might improve body composition, it does not directly reduce fat mass. Creatine may lead to a temporary weight gain due to increased water retention in muscles. When you stop taking creatine, you might experience a loss of this extra weight as the water is released.