Creatine: The Supplement That's Good for Your Brain and Muscles?

Creatine: Muscle Builder or Mind Booster? New Research Explores the Supplement's Potential Creatine, a compound naturally produced by the body, has long been a popular supplement for athletes seeking to build muscle and enhance athletic performance. Recent research, however, is expanding our understanding of creatine's potential benefits beyond the weight room. Julia Calderone, an editor for Well at The New York Times, explains the current state of knowledge. "Creatine supplements can help you build muscle and boost your athletic performance," Calderone states, citing established research. However, she also highlights newer studies exploring creatine's impact on cognitive function, suggesting potential benefits for memory and other cognitive processes. "There are some potential benefits for cognition, helping improve your memory," Calderone notes. Despite the promising findings, Calderone cautions that more research is needed to fully understand creatine's effects in areas beyond muscle growth and athletic performance. She emphasizes the importance of consulting a doctor before use, especially for those with pre-existing medical conditions. While the potential benefits of creatine are still being explored, its established role in muscle building and athletic performance, coupled with the ongoing research into its cognitive effects, makes it a fascinating and relevant topic for health-conscious individuals.