Should I Use Sugar Creatine Before or After a Workout?

Should I Use Sugar Creatine Before or After a Workout?
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Determining the right time to consume sugar creatine can assist in reaching your fitness goals. This amino acid naturally produces in the human body and can be found in food sources like red meat or fish. Creatine supplementation provides energy for intense activities like weightlifting or sprinting. Research shows that pre-mixed sugar creatine yields a 60 percent greater absorption rate in the body compared to other forms of this supplement.

Creatine and Sugar

Sugar creatine has certain advantages compared to other forms but also comes with a heavy calorie price tag. According to Bodybuilding.com, a 60 percent increase in creatine levels stem from sugar creatine consumption. During a loading phase when creatine dosage increases you can take in up to 1,448 extra calories a day from the sugar content in this supplement. Other forms of creatine skip the sugar to lower calorie counts per serving.

Timing

In a 2006 study Purdue University reported that consuming protein and creatine supplements before and after anaerobic workouts increases muscular strength and size. To improve muscular strength and size without the excess calories, split one drink for before and after your weightlifting or sprint training.

Side Effects

MayoClinic.com warns certain side effects have been reported from creatine usage, including heat intolerance, fever, dehydration and imbalances in electrolytes that result in seizures. Drinking plenty of water remains vital to prevent unwanted side effects.

Warning

Speak with your doctor before supplementing with creatine. Certain medical conditions, including diabetes or kidney disease, contraindicates usage of this supplement. If any side effects occur during usage discontinue immediately and call your health care provider.

References

Article reviewed by RandyS Last updated on: Jun 28, 2011

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