Effect Creatine Supplement

Creatine is an amino acid made in the body. As one of the most researched supplements on the market, new creatine effects are being discovered all the time. Research shows that creatine can enhance overall health by acting as an antioxidant and slowing down the aging process.

Offers Antioxidant Effects

In a 2006 study, researchers investigated the effects of creatine on free radical damage, which are molecules associated with diseases and aging. They found that adding creatine to cells reduced free radical damage and allowed more cells to survive compared to cells not exposed to creatine, according to the Nutra-Ingredients website. Scientists noted that creatine's ability to act as a mild antioxidant is the reason behind the results.

Increases Muscle Glycogen

Creatine is often used by athletes to increase muscle mass, but a 2003 study conducted by UK researchers found that creatine can also boost athletic performance in long-distance events spread over several days. Muscle glycogen, the stored form of carbs in the body, is used to fuel exercise. When these stores run low, fatigue sets in. Replenishing muscle glycogen sufficiently is vital for preventing fatigue during performance. Researchers found that creatine supplementation following exercise significantly increased muscle glycogen stores compared to a placebo.

Protects Againist Traumatic Brain Injury

In a 2000 study, University of Kentucky researchers reported that creatine can help reduce brain damage after a traumatic brain injury. Subjects suffering from a traumatic brain injury had greater reductions in brain damage following creatine supplementation than those taking a placebo.

Supplies Anti-aging Effects

Creatine might be effective in helping slow down the aging process. In research published in the August 2005 issue of the "Journal of Investigative Dermatology," German researchers reported that creatine supplementation inhibits mutations in the mitochondrial DNA, which is associated with anti-aging.