From the Guidelines
Creatine supplementation is safe for renal function, as evidenced by a study published in 2020, which found that creatine did not alter kidney function in a patient with a solitary kidney 1. When considering creatine supplementation, it is essential to prioritize renal function and overall health. The study published in the American Journal of Kidney Diseases in 2020 1 provides valuable insights into the safety of creatine supplementation for renal function. Key points to consider include:
- Creatine supplementation does not appear to pose a risk to kidney health when used as directed, even in individuals with a solitary kidney 1.
- However, it is crucial to note that creatine supplementation can affect creatinine clearance measurements, leading to potential misclassification of acute kidney injury 1.
- Individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions or those at risk for kidney disease should consult their healthcare provider before starting creatine supplementation.
- Staying well-hydrated is essential when taking creatine, as it can cause water retention in muscles.
- Creatine is naturally produced in the body and found in foods like meat and fish, and supplementation increases muscle creatine stores, which can enhance exercise performance and muscle growth.
- If any unusual symptoms or concerns arise while using creatine, it is recommended to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
From the Research
Creatine Supplementation and Renal Function
- The majority of studies suggest that creatine supplementation has no significant adverse effects on kidney function in healthy individuals 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- A review of 19 clinical and experimental articles found that short- and long-term creatine supplementation had no significant effects on kidney function in healthy athletes and bodybuilders 2.
- Another study found that creatine supplementation did not affect liver or kidney function in healthy subjects, even after several months of supplementation 3.
- A narrative review of the effects of creatine supplementation on kidney function found that clinical trials with controlled designs do not support the claim that creatine impairs kidney function 4.
- A study on the renal safety of L-carnitine, L-arginine, and glutamine in athletes and bodybuilders found that creatine supplementation appears to have no detrimental effects on kidney function in individuals without underlying renal diseases 5.
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial found that 8 weeks of creatine supplementation did not compromise renal function in patients with peripheral arterial disease 6.
Pre-Existing Kidney Disease
- It is generally recommended that individuals with pre-existing kidney disease or those with a potential risk for kidney dysfunction should avoid creatine supplementation or use it with caution 2, 3, 5.
- A study found that creatine supplementation may be safe for individuals with peripheral arterial disease, but more research is needed to confirm this finding 6.
Dosage and Duration
- The majority of studies used creatine supplementation doses ranging from 5-30 g/day, with some studies using higher doses for short periods of time 2, 3, 5, 6.
- The duration of creatine supplementation varied from a few days to several months or even years, with no significant adverse effects on kidney function reported in healthy individuals 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.