Creatine: what to know before buying

Understand the use case

Creatine is not an anabolic steroid. The NIH Office of Dietary Supplements describes benefits for some repeated, brief, high-intensity efforts, such as certain strength and sprint activities. That does not mean it improves every sport, replaces training or produces the same result for everyone.

Creatine monohydrate is the form most commonly studied. A more expensive blend or a new form is not automatically better supported. Evidence about one ingredient also does not establish the effectiveness or safety of every branded product containing it.