What COULD Creatine do?

joethetrainer.com


I used to work at GNC in college and a customer asked me what the best fat burner I would recommend.  I showed him one that I used and thought was great.  After showing him the bottle, which had a ripped bodybuilder on the front, he said "Whoa, I don't want to get that big!"  I thought it was the funniest thing that he actually thought he would by taking Ripped Fuel!  Well, it is a great testament that we really don't know what is good and what these supplements actually do.  Well, here is some info on a hot item:  CREATINE

According to a case report in a recent issue of The Journal there is a definite possibility of an adverse effect in a person taking oral creatine supplements.  Included are both kidney failure and Rhabdomyolysis.  Rhabdomyolysis results from a breakdown of the muscle cell wall, which leads to cell necrosis, or calicium in the blood stream. Although no studies have evaluated creatine supplementation and its effect on muscle compartment pressures, anecdotal evidence of athletes feeling "tight" or "cramped" abounds.  Muscle cramping remains one of the most common side effects reported by those taking creatine.  I had a friend that took creatine without water...6 months later he had to pass a kidney stone.  Youch!

Risk factors for rhabdomyolysis include dehydration, alcoholism, illicit drug use, trauma, and strenuous exercise.  The case reports also adds support to the hypothesis that the use of oral creatine supplements can lead to serious adverse effects. More importantly, it brings to mind the question that has been plaguing many for years about the role of ergogenic aids for sport:   Is it really worth it?

The simple fact is to be educated when taking ANY supplement.  Consult with your physician before taking any "dietary supplements".  We all know what the guy in the gym told us about this great new supplement - but it really could harm us.  My recommendation is to know as many facts as possible and decide if anything is good for you.  Especially, if you don't want to get that big - haha!