Creatine is a natural compound found in meat, seafood and animal products, and it can also be produced by the body in limited amounts. While not considered an essential nutrient, creatine supplementation has been shown to provide a wide range of benefits, not just for bodybuilders but for everyone. Here are 5 science-backed reasons to add creatine to your diet.
#1 Reduces fatigue and improves brain function
Creatine plays a direct role in ATP production, your cells' energy source. Higher levels of creatine can lead to less physical and mental fatigue, and improved cognitive function, especially during memory-intensive tasks.
#2 Lowers blood sugar
Creatine helps muscle cells take in glucose more efficiently, leading to lower blood sugar levels. This can be particularly beneficial for people with insulin resistance, diabetes, PCOS, or other blood sugar-related conditions.
#3 Improves muscle growth and overall health
Creatine is well-known for its muscle-building properties. Maintaining lean muscle mass is crucial for overall health, as it's associated with an increased metabolic rate, better immune function, improved insulin sensitivity, and better overall health, especially as we age.
#4 Reduces disease risk
Increased creatine intake has been linked to a reduced risk of diabetes, sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss), and certain neurological disorders.
Most people require 3-5 grams of creatine per day to maintain optimal levels. You can supplement with creatine powder, or consume creatine-rich foods like red meat, pork and salmon.
I hope this blog post has convinced you to consider adding creatine to your diet. Even if you're not a bodybuilder, you can reap the many benefits this natural compound has to offer. Remember, consistency is key, so make sure to consume enough creatine daily to see results.