Creatine is only beneficial for athletes
7.0Moderate
evidence
evidence
The Claim
There is a common belief that creatine's benefits are exclusive to athletes or bodybuilders who engage in intense physical training.
Origin
This myth has roots in sports nutrition literature and advertising that target high-performance athletes, often overshadowing the broader applicability of creatine.
What Science Says
Research indicates that creatine can also offer cognitive benefits and support for older adults in maintaining muscle mass and strength. Studies, including RCTs, have observed improvements in cognitive tasks and reduced muscle loss in non-athletic populations, suggesting its benefits extend beyond athletic performance.
Verdict
Partially True
Sources
- PMID:39070254 The effects of creatine supplementation on cognitive function in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
- PMID:21394604 Use of creatine in the elderly and evidence for effects on cognitive function in young and old.
- PMID:33800439 Creatine Supplementation in Women's Health: A Lifespan Perspective.