Extensive experiments have been done to
test creatine side effects on humans, and Dr. Paul Balsom
- the world leading expert on creatine - stated "to
the best of our knowledge, the only documented adverse effect
of creatine supplementation is an increase in body mass."
Well, I'd say that's something all bodybuilders can live
with. :)
However, be cautioned that there are no
long term studies on high dosage effects on creatine use.
So its recommended that you follow the instructions on the
label and don't over do it.
Long term use of creatine has not shown
any adverse side effect on humans. I have used creatine
for several years, and have never encountered any 'bad'
creatine side affect. As well, no studies have shown creatine
to have any adverse side effects on humans.
Common Creatine Side Effects
Okay, so you now know that there's probably
no adverse side effect of creatine, but here are some effects
of creatine you will notice physically:
- You'll feel stronger, more powerful,
and will have much more energy and longevity during workouts.
- You'll start to notice that your body
(muscles) is fuller and bigger - partly due to some water
retention (a createin side effect), and mostly gain in
muscle mass.
- You may find that your muscles are
not as 'hard' due to the water retention; however, I did
not find this noticeable very much.
- When you exercise intensely, you'll
find that the 'screeching' pain (due to build up of lactic
acid) won't bother you nearly as much! This is discussed
in the creatine benefits
and creatine monohydrate
information articles.
- You'll have noticeably more energy
and 'bursting' power during workouts - you'll be able
to lift slightly heavier weights and feel less fatigue.
- Can cause kidney stones in some rare
cases
- You may notice some gas and bloating
- Some concerns lie in the unknown effects
of creatine supplementation on the heart, as its also
a muscle (this area still lacks research)
Now, keep in mind that creatine side effects
will vary from person to person, and this is strictly speaking
from my own personal experience with creatine monohydrate.
Please DO NOT take this as any medical advice or opinion,
and please view our disclaimer
regarding terms of use.
Previous studies conducting personal interviews
with male/female athletes who have used creatine for longer
than 1 year did not reveal any long-term side effects of
creatine. However, one short term side effect of creatine
noted is that athletes who took more than the recommended
amount of creatine experienced diarrhea, however this creatine
effect went away after reducing the dosage.
>>
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>>
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Click
here to learn about creatine use and creatine cycling
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