From the Guidelines
There is limited evidence suggesting creatine supplements are harmful for teenagers, and most research indicates that creatine is generally safe when used appropriately, even in adolescent populations. The potential concerns for teens using creatine include possible kidney stress if taken in excessive amounts or with inadequate hydration, though this risk appears minimal in healthy individuals 1. Some teens might experience minor side effects like stomach discomfort, cramping, or water retention.
Key Considerations
- The American Academy of Pediatrics doesn't specifically recommend creatine for adolescents but doesn't prohibit it either, suggesting caution and medical consultation.
- Teenagers who choose to use creatine should stick to recommended dosages (typically 3-5g daily), maintain proper hydration, purchase from reputable manufacturers, and ideally consult with a healthcare provider first.
- A balanced diet should be the primary focus for teen athletes, with supplements viewed as secondary to proper nutrition, training, and recovery.
- It's also important to note that certain dietary supplements can affect kidney function, and individuals with pre-existing kidney issues should exercise caution when using such supplements 1.
Safety and Efficacy
- A study published in the American Journal of Kidney Diseases found that creatine supplementation did not compromise kidney function in a patient with a solitary kidney, but it did affect the ability to accurately estimate kidney function 1.
- Another study published in The Lancet Neurology found that creatine supplementation failed to show a clear benefit in individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and it was recommended to discontinue the supplement if renal dysfunction was present 1.
Recommendations
- Teenagers should use creatine supplements with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially if they have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.
- It's essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks of creatine supplementation and consider alternative methods to improve athletic performance, such as proper training and nutrition.
From the Research
Potential Risks of Creatine Supplements for Teens
- There is limited research on the safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in adolescent populations 2.
- Some studies suggest that creatine supplementation may be safe and well-tolerated in healthy individuals, including adolescents 2, 3.
- However, other studies raise concerns about the potential risks of creatine supplementation, particularly for individuals with pre-existing kidney disease or those at risk for kidney dysfunction 4.
- A study found that health food store employees frequently recommend creatine supplements to teenage athletes, despite the American Academy of Pediatrics' recommendations against pediatric use of creatine 5.
- The same study found that 74.2% of sales attendants stated that a 15-year-old could purchase creatine supplements on their own in the store, highlighting the ease of access to these supplements for teenagers 5.
Considerations for Teen Athletes
- Teen athletes should be informed about safe and healthy methods to improve athletic performance, and discouraged from using creatine supplements or other performance-enhancing substances 5.
- Pediatricians and healthcare professionals should be aware of the potential risks and benefits of creatine supplementation in adolescent populations and provide guidance to their patients accordingly 2, 4.
- More research is needed to fully understand the safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in adolescent populations, particularly in the long term 2.