Creatine is one of the body's naturally occurring substances and plays a vital role in the building and strengthening of the skeletal muscles. Creatine supplements are one of the most common and popular supplements on the market for those involved in athletics. The supplement is frequently used by those who are trying to increase their body mass or overall strength. Before taking creatine, be sure to speak with your doctor and make yourself aware of the potential risks and side effects that are associated with the supplements.
Drug Interaction
Taking creatine supplements may create serious negative reactions with other medications you may be taking, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Taking creatine supplements along with diuretics or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines elevates the risk of your kidneys failing. You are also at an increased risk of stroke if you take creatine supplements with drugs that are used as a stimulant by the central nervous system, such as ephedra, caffeine and other herbal supplements.
Water Retention and Bloating
When creatine accumulates within your body, it will often cause you to gain water weight in the tissues. This water weight is frequently mistaken as an increase in muscle mass by many body builders. Because of this water retention, other tissues within the body can start becoming deprived of the fluids it needs to operate normal daily function, especially after intense exercise has been performed. Women are especially sensitive to creatine supplements as they are already more susceptible to bloating because of hormones and excess sodium in their bodies. For every 2.25 lbs of your body, you should drink 2 oz. of water to avoid dehydration while on creatine supplements, according to the Creatine Information Center.
Digestive Problems
In some people, taking creatine supplements lead to the development of digestive side effects like nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, diarrhea and stomach cramps. More serious side effects of the digestive system, such as reduced function of the liver, are also possible. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, if the creatine supplements were used for a period of less than six months, these serious side effects are far less likely to occur. These digestive system side effects are different from person to person and will vary in intensity. In some cases, they may begin to interfere with the performance of the athlete. The nausea and loss of appetite often lead to reduced energy and weight loss due to the reduced amount of food that is eaten.
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