WHAT IS CREATINE MONOHYDRATE?
Creatine monohydrate is a widely studied supplement form of creatine, a substance that helps muscles quickly replace energy during short, hard efforts.
WHAT IT MEANS
Creatine supplementation can raise the amount of creatine stored in muscle and support repeated efforts such as lifting weights. The supplement form and the creatine already present in the body are related, but they are not identical terms.
A PRACTICAL EXAMPLE
Repeated sets of strength exercises are the kind of activity where creatine may be useful.
IMPORTANT LIMITS
It supports training rather than replacing it. Benefits vary, and this definition is not an individual supplement recommendation.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is creatine a protein supplement?
No. Creatine and dietary protein play different roles.
RELATED READING
Steadfast’s Creatine Monohydrate Guide · Resistance Training
SOURCES
NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, exercise and athletic performance fact sheet