Your body stores creatine in your muscle tissue. It maintains levels of creatine by synthesizing other amino acids to produce it. Another way to obtain creatine is through supplements. Creatine can help you build muscle as part of a consistent resistance training program, much like steroids, but without potential symptoms of aggressive tendencies. Consult your doctor before trying creatine supplements.
How it Works
Your muscle’s primary source of energy is ATP. It’s burned up within a matter of seconds during a heavy lift or vigorous movement. When it’s gone, your muscles become weaker and strained. This is the reason you can’t do an unlimited number of sets and repetitions in the gym. Creatine helps prolong energy in your muscle tissue by its role as a precursor of phosphocreatine, which is broken down in the muscles to create additional ATP when stores become low. More repetitions and sets in the gym equals greater strength and muscle gains.
Adverse Effects
According to the University of Illinois McKinley Health Center, very few side effects are associated with creatine in the first two weeks of taking this supplement. Adverse effects of longer term supplementation are minor and include diarrhea, vomiting and nausea. You are also likely to gain weight when taking creatine as a result of increased water retention. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, other possible side effects of creatine supplementation include muscle cramps, upset stomach and dehydration. No symptoms of aggressive behavior or irritability are mentioned by either university as being a side effect of taking creatine supplements.
Dosage
According to UMMC, the first phase of creatine supplementation involves consuming 20 g of creatine per day in 5-g increments. This phase lasts for up to one week. The second week and subsequent weeks involves taking 2 to 5 g of creatine per day to maintain adequate levels. Taking creatine for up to six months at a time typically yields few or no adverse side effects, according to UMMC. The exception is if you have liver or kidney disease, in which case you should not take creatine supplements.
Considerations
While McKinley Health Center and UMMC don’t list aggressive behavior as a potential side effect of creatine supplementation, these supplements may cause side effects not listed by these universities. Both are quick to point out that future studies are necessary to conclusively say whether or not creatine is safe for long-term consumption. Future research may discover new side effects associated with prolonged use lasting longer than six months. If you notice aggressive tendencies while taking creatine supplements, consult your doctor right away.
Member Comments