Creatine is often seen as a bodybuilder's supplement. The reality is more nuanced: it is one of the most studied ingredients in sports nutrition, with over 1,000 published clinical studies and documented effects well beyond the gym.
Definition: what is creatine monohydrate?
Creatine is a molecule naturally synthesised by the body, mainly by the liver, kidneys and pancreas, from three amino acids: arginine, glycine and methionine. It is stored as phosphocreatine (PCr) primarily in skeletal muscles (~95%) and in small amounts in other tissues (brain, heart).
It is also found in animal foods: red meat (~2–5 g/kg), fish (~3–4 g/kg). Vegetarians and vegans obtain virtually none from food.
Creatine monohydrate is the reference form. Its bioavailability, safety profile and efficacy are better documented than all other forms (Kre-Alkalyn, creatine HCl, etc.).
How does creatine work in the body?
During short, intense effort (sprint, resistance set), muscles consume ATP faster than the aerobic pathway can supply. Phosphocreatine (PCr) acts as an immediate energy reserve: it donates a phosphate to ADP to regenerate ATP within milliseconds.
Supplementation increases PCr stores in muscles, improving the ability to sustain repeated high-intensity efforts.
This mechanism is direct, measurable and recognised by EFSA: "Creatine improves physical performance during successive bursts of short-term, high-intensity exercise" (EU health claim no. 737, Regulation 432/2012).
What the science says: EFSA-validated effects
EFSA has validated two health claims for creatine monohydrate:
- , with a daily intake of 3 g.