Creatine supplementation is widely acknowledged for boosting muscular mass and strength and improving exercise performance. A recent review in Frontiers in Nutrition examined its impact on brain and muscle health via the muscle-brain axis.
Introduction
Both the brain and skeletal muscle consume vast amounts of energy during activity. Creatine is a key regulatory molecule in both organ systems, preventing damage during periods of intensive energy demand. It facilitates rapid energy availability in the form of ATP, reduces oxidative stress, and counters inflammation.
What is creatine?
Creatine, or methyl guanidine acetic acid, is a nitrogen-rich molecule produced from amino acids like arginine, glycine, and methionine. It is produced primarily in the liver and brain but can also be obtained from beef, fish, or pork and consumed as a supplement.
Creatine affects multiple cell pathways and has many different effects. The results include greater energy balance, anti-inflammatory effects, muscle hypertrophy, and improved glucose regulation.
