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Consumer Review: This May Seem Ironic, But I Actually Work At GNC And There Is A Very High Possibility That Creatine Monohydrate/Citrate Does Have Potential Side Effects.

This may seem ironic, but I actually work at GNC, and there is a very high possibility that creatine monohydrate/citrate DOES have potential side effects. (Boy, my district manager would be pissed if he knew that I was downplaying this creatine.) Anyway, who cares?

Just a little refresh.....Creatine phosphate is actually produced and stored by the kidneys and liver. So.... If the body is receiving an external supply of creatine, it will automatically shut down all production. This will create a condition, chemical dependency, making creatine a DRUG. Anyway, you'll be dependent on it. Later down the line, you'll experience kidney and liver damage. Why? Because the by-product of creatine, creatinine, is similar to uric acid, it is a toxin. When too much builds up, it puts stress on these two organs. (this may explain why one of your readers experienced a fiery pain, and why a lot of people breakout with pimples and get diarrhea, due to the body's inability to filter so much toxin.

So, my point is that creatine is another fad, and all of these "studies", which are actually sponsored by companies, can be doctored to show the "results" that become when supplementing. I have been on creatine for three days, and finally came to my senses; People, IT'S ALL IN YOUR HEAD, PURELY PSYCHOLOGICAL. Just eat adequate protein, carbs, and fats, and you'll grow just fine. And another thing about creatinine's similarities to uric acid, it could possibly cause gout, a form of arthritis that's characterized by crystallized uric acid in the joints, causing sharp pains. Think about that the next time you load up with some grape juice....


Response #1

To whoever wrote this "bull," do you have any idea about what you're talking about? You say that if the body receives an "external supply of creatine it will shut down all production." First, creatine is found in virtually all meat. So if what you said is true, then every time you ate meat your body would "shut down". Secondly, creatine is not a "fad". The stuff works, and it works big time. I use the stuff and highly recommend to everyone I train. I have yet to have anyone not experience tremendous results. Thirdly, gout. C'mon, where's your research or proof?


Response #1 To Response #1

Yes it is true that creatine is found in virtually all meats red meats and the amount of creatine found is nothing compared to the amount ingested through tablets or other oral methods. For example, an 8 oz steak only has 1 gram of creatine. So, obviously, the effects will be very different from eating meats and ingesting pure creatine.


Response #2

I have proof from doctors, surgeons, and RNs who see the screwed up people in their unit from that crap and about four other professionals that have no ax to grind that creatine is harmful. It does everything that was said. I took creatine and took the recommended dose and almost had double kidney failure from that crap, so do it is not bull. Eating meat isn't the same as putting a high concentration of creatine into your body. The surgeons who knows better then the fools that take creatine said "You know how many people I operate on who take that creatine because there organs fail".

THIS STUFF IS DANGEROUS! I could have died from it. I am proof. I stopped taking creatine and I am working out and getting just as strong as I was without taking that crap. It angers me to see people not listen and don't care just cause they want results, EVEN IF IT WILL KILL THEM. I have news, NJ is banning creatine and so will all the states eventually and I am glad cause it will save people from there own ignorance. It is not FDA APPROVED. That's all I have to say and I have a lot of respect for the GNC employee for telling the truth, God bless ya.


Response #1 To Response #2

No offense, but individual testimonials hardly support a cause and effect relationship between creatine and kidney failure. Studies have consistently shown creatine to have no detrimental effect on the kidneys (Muscular Development, Jan 1999) and other studies fail to report any serious side effects (Sports Supplement Review, 1998). Although this publication is put out by EAS, the journals it cites are not. Your case is important and serious, but I think further research needs to be conducted before we make such claims.


Response #2 To Response #2

I wanna contact the guy that talk about the dangers of creatine. I am a living proof too that creatine is dangerous for kidneys. I'm doing fever for 3 weeks now and just past a blood test. My creatinine blood level is too high and the doctor doesn't know what to do. He wants to wait a little bit because I only stop taking it for 2 weeks now. I'm so scared. I don't wanna loose my kidneys.


Response #1 to Response #1 To Response #2

Why would Muscular Development badmouth the hand that feeds them. Namely the supplement companies by saying that creatine is "not safe". It just wouldn't happen. Creatine and off shoots of it are currently the supplement companies/sellers bread and butter. Do you think they would really jeopardize their sales by stating unbiased and objective findings on the creatine? Time will tell how safe this product really is, but for the mean time, if something is too good to be true, it probably is. This makes a lot of people mad because creatine is like the wonder drug for thousands of folks out there. Vanity can be can be dangerous and even deadly. Hopeful time will prove creatine to be a safe substance. But in the mean time, allow the FDA to test it and report its findings. They are the final "say so," and have a reputation of being EXTRA careful when it comes to consumer safety.

These so called tests are not done by the same people we trust to test everything from food to behind the counter medications. They ARE however tested and written about by the companies which produce them!

Response #3

I noticed that you said creatine phosphate is made and stored in kidneys and liver, that much is true, but from there you are all wrong. Have you ever tried it or spoken to a doctor about? The body needs more creatine to help it grow and if there is anyone who is taking phosphate it is just washed out of the system via the kidneys. It is time that GNC hires some people who really know what they are talking about. Seems that everyone else is wrong and you are right??? I don't think so. I am in a wheelchair. I have full use of my upper body from the pecs up and my doctor said there is nothing wrong with using creatine monohydrate as long as you check with a doctor as you should before taking anything in the body building line. It will show a false reading in some kidney tests. So, do the right thing, talk to the doctor and take CREATINE MONOHYDRATE!!!!!!


Response #1 To Response #3

You are all wrong #3. First of all, you said have any of us spoken to a doc before and I have, to dozens. It does not show false kidney readings. They are very true. I saw that statement on the net from a company trying to push creatine. I have talked to expert surgeons, doctors, and all. Maybe, your doc doesn't know much about the stuff. NOT ALL doctors know a lot about creatine. I almost had double kidney failure and it through off my electrolytes and I could also have had a heart attack and was taking the recommended dose.

Your liver produces a substance called "creatanine" "creatney" and it is the same crap as creatine. When you overload your system with creatine, it breaks down the kidneys and liver. Also, it causes an electrolyte imbalance that could have caused my death and I had no other health problems. Just because GNC sells it and other places, that does not mean it is safe. You are so wrong #3. Talk to a doctor that does not have no ax to grind. Some sports doctors love it cause of the drastic gain. Talk to level headed and knowledgeable doctors about creatine. I was sick for months cause of creatine and could have died. I am one proof, not just by a blood test either. THE NHL BANNED CREATINE cause their players were developing health problems and that is a fact. Look it up!


Response #4

Hows about this? I put forth the burning question, "Who the hell are you people to be telling anyone anything?" Supposedly, the most well informed is a flunky register jockey at a GNC! The only facts in this matter is that there is NO consensus nor enough studies to make ANY of the unfounded conclusions you have put forward. If you're going to make any statement about this or any other product, back it up with a published medical journal report. BE RESPONSIBLE!

Editor's Note: The purpose of this web site is to give people who have used specific nutritional supplements a forum to share what they experienced. This web site is not meant to take the place of unbiased, double blind, clinical studies. Rather, it should be seen as an additional source of information. While a single report may seem to portray an inaccurate picture, when taken as a whole, the ever growing number of reports found on this site reveal a much higher degree of truth than the advertising that many consumers base their purchasing decisions on.


Response #5

Wow, such a heated debate. I would like to add some advice if I can. The bottom line is this: the use of creatine as a supplement is too new to make anything more than a speculative guess as to its benefits vs risks. It's obvious that if you take creatine and have little or no side effects but enjoy an increase in performance, then you would be pro creatine and would argue about it's harmful effects. The same goes if you were unfortunate enough to sustain medical problems from its use.

I do not nor have I ever taken creatine myself, but I am a paramedic who has run on a few unfortunate men who had more serious side effects directly linked to creatine use. Let me first say that I have no idea what dosages these people took, nor do I know anything else about their lives other than they were normally fit and healthy with no pre existing medical conditions. The adverse effects ranged from a guy yellow as a banana from jaundice, a result of liver damage, to dehydration, hypoglycemia, kidney failure, abnormal cardiac rhythms such as SVT and PVC's and even seizures.

I guess what I'm trying to tell you is that "YES" you can have some serious side effects from taking creatine. How, when, or why? Nobody knows yet. You have to weigh the risks vs the benefits. Just about anything you do these days can kill you and can have some side effects. The nutrasweet I put in my coffee will give me a tumor, cancer or something like that, but I have decided that having a good cup of joe is worth the risk and when I get a tumorous growth somewhere, I will switch to sugar.

Be responsible, look carefully for side effects, and stop taking the stuff immediately if you get any until you can consult with your doctor. I have done some research on creatine following my fist run in with it. I read through all the medical alphabet agencies journals (JAMA, AMA, JEMS, AEMS etc, etc.) and found little or no hard data but many shouts for studies to be done. Below is a partial clipping from JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association). It's based on Olympic Athletes.

Take care and be safe,
D.S.

"Another hot topic in Olympic training is the use of creatine monohydrate as a nutritional supplement. It is used in an attempt to increase creatine phosphate stores in striated muscle and thereby increase functional energy production. Available mostly by mail order as a powder or a stabilized liquid, creatine monohydrate is used primarily by what Coyle says is 'a fair number' of power athletes like sprinters, weightlifters, and football players.

In theory, it allows athletes to train at a higher intensity, which should stimulate a greater adaptive response, and so improve performance. However little research has been done on its effects. Timothy Noakes, MBChB, MD, who is professor and director of bioenergetics of the Exercise Research Unit for the Medical Research Council at the University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa, comments, 'As usually happens, a product is launched before there is adequate evidence of its value.'

Developed by British physiologist Roger Harris, it was first used by British sprinters in the 1992 Summer Games in Barcelona. Despite its dubious benefits, there is interest: a recent Internet query for creatine monohydrate yielded more than 300 specific hits. Manufacturers' suggested dosages vary. Most recommend a 5- to 7-day loading phase during which an athlete consumes 20 to 30 grams each day, and then a maintenance dosage of 5 to 20 grams each day after that. The loading phase alone can cost up to $30, and monthly costs for the maintenance phase can be even more.

Noakes and Coyle cite concerns about the lack of research on use of creatine monohydrate as a performance-enhancing supplement. They question not only its efficacy but also its safety. 'Huge quantities of creatine monohydrate are being consumed,' says Coyle. Obtaining similar quantities of creatine by eating meat would be extremely difficult, if not impossible, he says, and the meat would have to be raw, or close to it. The ingestion of such a large quantity of creatine monohydrate raises questions about its long-term effects on organs and muscles, specifically the cardiac muscle, and potential effects on the kidney, such as its effect on creatinine clearance. And since it's classified as a nutritional supplement and therefore subject to less stringent regulation than drugs, there is no guarantee of its purity. Despite these concerns, use of creatine monohydrate is not illegal in international competition.

'This is a perfect opportunity for clinical research,' says Coyle. It remains to be seen whether use of creatine monohydrate for enhancing training is harmful, beneficial, or just plain useless."


Response #1 to Response #5

I couldn't agree with Response #5 more. Everything we eat, drink or do in life has a potential side effect. I think the real problem with Creatine, which scares most of us away from the product, is the unknown. Since we do not have real solid proof of what Creatine does, most of us assume the worst. Now, I am not calling anyone a liar. I believe Creatine caused problems with some people, but so does coffee. My point is that all our bodies react differently to different products. Some of us can't eat too much sugar because we are diabetic, some of us are allergic to shell food and will break out in a deadly case of hives. Maybe the people having issues with Creatine are "allergic" to it, maybe not. The bottom line is everything has the potential to harm or even kill you if not used properly and not taken in moderation.

How many of you drink, even just socially? Alcohol is a known poison that will kill you eventually, yet lots of people flood the bars every week and drink. I bet more people would be willing to take a drink of scotch over a gram of Creatine because of the unknown effects of Creatine.

There are many things we have no proof of long-term side effects. Some examples - The microwave - hmm...food cooked via radiation, I'm sure that's as safe as they claim. How about cell phones..do you realize how much radiation is going into your head when you make a call? I think Creatine in moderate doses (below the recommended doses, which I have read as being too high), will be no worse than any other unknown 'long-term' risk out there. In addition, the people out there with the liver and kidney problems are not showing long-term side effects, they are showing short-term effects. Please keep that in mind.

I think we have enough short-term research to conclude some people's bodies handle creatine safely and others have issues. If you are scared to take creatine just because of the possible 'long-term' side effects, you better pre-heat your oven to 350 the next time you want to reheat your leftovers and sell the microwave.


Response #6

Some people can take creatine and have it work for them, and some can't. The ones who can, see no or little side effects and nice muscle, weight, and strength gains. These people also tend to endorse the product more. The people who can't take this stuff talk bad about it. Like "I got my kidneys damaged", "I was hospitalized. Don't ever use creatine again!." Well, obviously, you can't use the stuff. But it is true, some people can and some people just can't use creatine.

For me, I have been on the stuff for about 4 months and I have not seen a single side effect. I have seen pleasing results with my muscle size. I have also increased my bench max, and gained 8-10 pounds of muscle in the time noted. Also, creatine gives me a lot more strength during my workouts. Oh, and in case you are a "teen" reading this, yes, its probably safe to take as long as you take the correct dosage.

Thanks,
Ryan


Response #7

Well, I see everyone is up in arms about creatine. I have mixed emotions on the product because I had outstanding muscle gain and endurance while I was taking the product, but shortly afterwards, I was sick for about 6 months with elevated liver function. I stopped taking the product immediately and within a few weeks I was back to normal. Maybe it was just coincidence, maybe not.

I have not taken creatine for over a year now, and have had no liver problems. I suggest if you are going to use creatine, go in to get your liver and kidneys tested every 3 months or so. I feel that it can be taken by most people without any problems, but for the rest of us it could be potentially dangerous...just my 2 cents.


Response #8

A lot of you people are just running off at the mouth for no reason. Someone was saying that creatinine is produced by the liver and it is the same as creatine. That is hogwash. Creatinine is a waste product of creatine metabolism in the muscles. Creatinine is freely filtered by the kidneys that's why the creatinine clearance test is used by doctors to test kidney function.

Creatine metabolism causes water loss, so I can understand complaints of muscle cramps and diarrhea. However, some of you are talking about heart failure and severe renal failure. How much of this stuff are you taking? Are you following the recommended dosage on the bottle? I take creatine and, generally, I see positive results. Sometimes I cramp up if I don't drink enough water, but that is expected. Granted, creatine effects everyone differently, but if you are properly educated on it and take the specified dosages, you should not be suffering from kidney disease or heart problems.


Response #9

Creatine does work as long as you use it correctly. If you decide to work out with creatine, it is recommended that you do at least an hour of lifting every day. Also if you start to take creatine and don't take it for a couple days after you started loading with the creatine, the next time you start lifting your body will have to load the creatine all over again. So if your not dedicated to lifting and getting stronger it is not even worth taking.


Response #10

I hear a lot about the dangers of creatine and sometimes it is hard for me to believe all these dangers exist. First of all, most people in this country are dehydrated by their lifestyles. Is this a contributing factor? The other problem I have with the discussion is with the people preaching dangers and stating that the stuff doesn't work. I am 37 years old and have been lifting for 22 years and have taken all kinds of stuff , and this is the only stuff that has ever worked. When someone tells me it doesn't work, I totally discredit them.


Response #11

Just to let you know, I used creatine for the last month. I gained 11 pounds of which a good part is muscle. I'm in top form, and have just placed second in a show. So I think I'll need solid proof of these 'side effects' that everyone is complaining about. If you take it correctly, drink a lot of water and eat right, creatine should not give you problems.


Response #12

I have used Creatine on and off for about 20 months now, usually for around 3-4 months at a time. It takes around 3-4 weeks to build up enough to make a strength/stamina difference, and likewise, takes around 3-4 weeks to get out of my system.

No one knows the long term side effects because no one has used creatine the way we do for very long. The only thing I have read regarding what really goes on in the liver that's bad is that normally your ingest around a gram a day, and your body produces a gram a day (from other sources) and that this is what the body needs for normal operation. When more than "normal" amounts is ingested, the liver doesn't produce any, and this is where it's bad, supposedly fat cells can build up or something, I don't know, Dammit Jim, I'm an engineer, not a doctor!

I haven't had the detrimental side effects discussed, but I'd like to avoid them too, obviously. I have gone from 190 to 215-220lbs, bench from 8-10 reps at 225 to 16-18 reps, squat went from 10 reps at 315 to 10 reps at 405, etc., so the stuff works. It makes my muscles go feel the way they did when I was 20, now I'm 31.

Oh, I use in between 3-5 grams a day to maintain. During the so called loading phase, it makes no difference in how much I take each day, or in what combo, it still takes a few weeks. Also, I read that taking creatine with citrus juice changes part of it into creatinine so it is a waste. I've always taken it with water since it was usually at night and I didn't want to have all that sugar running around my body when I was going to bed. I have used "Pure Encapsulations" brand exclusively until recently when my supplier changed to EAS phosphagen brand.

In response 7 I believe, they recommend getting one's liver and kidneys tested. How and what does one do to do this? What do you ask your doctor to look for?


Response #13

Just a quick note on what was mentioned. Someone said that if the users are properly educated on creatine, then we shouldn't be suffering any heart or liver problems, yet becoming educated on the issue is the main problem. There aren't enough studies (accurate and inaccurate) out there to draw a conclusion, the wide range of responses and results at the very least will have us second guess what anyone writes or tells us.

It is a proven and well know fact that Creatine phosphate is produced and stored by the kidneys and liver, otherwise the point of a 'phase off', coming off the product for a 2 to 4 week span every 6 weeks would be what? It's so the user's liver can again produce its own creatine phosphate and will reduce the risk of dependency and permanent damage.

Look at everything else that is on the market, from aspirin to vitamins to cold medication, taken correctly 90% of the people have the same results. That can't even be said for 20% of the creatine users.


Response #14

The person was going to die? from Creatine?!?!? I don't think so.

I know tons of people (31 to be exact) who are using or have used the stuff and all they are getting is results. I have been taking 10 grams a day for the past 6 weeks and have been working out in the gym for at least an hour a day five days a week. I also have a partner who started at the same time I did. We have been working out together since then. The results are definitely not natural, in the first week I gained 10 lb. (water) and both of us have had huge gains in power......side effects have been diarrhea so far. I'm not sure what is going to happen later on down the road but speaking from personal experience and what I have seen, there are no negative long term side effects (all the people I know have used it in the past 3 years).

If anyone can direct me to more good studies on Creatine I would appreciate it.


Response #15

I would just like to add my 2 cents on this topic. I have read everything I could find on this topic and I asked my doctor about it. The bottom line is I have to agree with the paramedic, there isn't enough research to have any concrete proof either way (the EAS journal doesn't count). My experience with it was great results, but my kidneys ached after the second cycle I tried. You have to drink water constantly to keep them flushed or you may start feeling the pain. My final decision was not to use it, the risk doesn't outweigh the benefits. So be careful and lift hard!!!


Response #16

I was thinking of taking this creatine supplement, but now after reading all the side effects and organ problems it causes, I decided that I have enough going on in my life and I do not need the extra aggravation from a dietary supplement. I would like to know if there are any products out there that are considered safer and give the benefits of some weight control/weight loss, and that can enhance the libido. I would like it posted here.


Response #17

Forget that some people without sources say creatine is helpful and some say it is harmful. The lack of resources should not negate the fact that it is in fact both. Creatine does show results, but at what cost? Those who have had liver and kidney complications should be considered unlucky, also those who have not suffered these are equally lucky. The living testimonies are enough to show that creatine taken by the recommended dosage can hurt. I would be willing, if not forced by logic, to accept 10-20 cases of liver related illnesses every year as pure coincidence or maybe a narrowly felt side-effect. The numbers are much higher, and this is a reality that we are all aware of. Just in this forum, there are two or three individuals with liver and kidney problems believed to have resulted from creatine.

Let's say you do look at these cases and tell yourself it wont happen to you. How do you know it wont? Are you sure that these side effects will not happen to you just because you have not seen them yet? Then there is the ultimate question, "Is it worth it?".

Have we become so lazy or so intent on gaining quick growth that we are willing to forgo the consequences? People use this to further their body development at the risk (there is a risk, that is a fact anyone can tell you) of deteriorating their body. Does that strike anyone as ironic?

In closing, one should realize that there is a chance of damaging one's kidneys and liver. Though it might not happen to you, it might happen to you. So all of you out there still buying lotto tickets, all of you who think there is a chance to win, remember that your chances are much greater to win the side effects of creatine.

This is not meant to put creatine down. I love to work out. I also love to stay healthy and in shape. I am 16 years old, very fit and would not use creatine. A couple of my friends have taken it over three weeks and gotten bigger. I attribute most of the growth to going to the gym 6 days a week and working diligently. However they stopped taking it, because you can never be too safe.

No one wants to realize that they shouldn't take it. We are all too happy with the results it can produce, but we should never lose sight of the whole picture.

RJM


Response #18

I have decided that Creatine does produce sufficient results, however there is much controversy and debate over the question "Is Creatine safe?" Well, from my research I would say that Creatine is safe to use, however due to this controversy and certain "rumors" about creatine, I will avoid using it.

No significant research has shown that Creatine hurts the body, none whatsoever, only positive benefits and only positive results have been PROVEN by researchers at Harvard. Then again, the controversy remains that "friends" and even the people themselves have suffered from Creatine...most suffering from liver damage.

Bottom line, Creatine has NEVER been proven to be harmful by any top name researchers, which is very odd. But the controversy is so great that I am a bit scared to put my health in danger. Therefore, I will refuse to take this substance. Do it at your own risk. It may be crucial.


Response #19

Before everyone gets their panties in wad, they need to read what the GNC guy originally said. He was talking about Creatine PHOSPHATE, not Creatine MONOHYDRATE. So until you have your facts on each squared away, I think opinionated statements and answers to the questions should be striked from the record.

As with any supplement (most of which aren't approved by the FDA anyway), you have to do your own research on the product before you buy it. See if you already have internal problems before you take it before you put the blame on the product. Also remember, just because a guy drives an ambulance, it still takes about 8 years of schooling from being a doctor. Sure I have seen side effects with creatine, but that's because it was being abused: snorting, overloading, etc..... You can see side effects if you take too much Vitamin C. Come on people, Research. See through the propaganda and assumption. I would have never have made it into the WWF if it wasn't for creatine nor had my glory days at Miami.

The Rock


Response #1 to Response #19

How do we really know that you're The Rock. Anything that is not approved by the FDA is sure to have some dangerous side effects because if it didn't, then whoever made the product would get it approved by the FDA.


Response #20

I'm in my second major 4 month cycle of creatine, and I've had no problems at all. I'm 55 yrs old and have increased my bench by about 20 lbs during each cycle. During the off weeks, I just try to maintain. I also add about 5 or 6 lbs when I begin a new cycle (probably water weight), but my muscles do look "fuller". Everything I have read suggests that there have been no long term studies, but creatine is safe and beneficial in the short term. I'm sure there are exceptions, just like some people have reactions to aspirin, but for me, the results are worth the small risk.


Response #21

Creatine doesn't work--working out works. The supplement companies don't even have to advertise, most of these supplement ADDICTS stand up for these frauds no matter what it does to them. You want to gain muscle--lift weights, and don't ANYONE make these STUPID UNFOUNDED associations between sickness/health and a supplement--you aren't capable of it. You want increased libido?? Get your wife to striptease for you.


Response #22

You people using creatine portray yourselves as being healthy, and chemical free. Isn't it true to say that in attaining health, surely the natural way is the healthiest way. Taking creatine is no different from using drugs. Creatine is "performance enhancing". Alas, many have found their "proton pill," but the dumb don't seem to worry!


Response #23

Look, I'm a female just out of high school, and I've already heard more about creatine than I ever wanted to hear. Creatine may have positive results with little or no side effects, but is it really worth the risk? Especially to high school (or younger) athletes with their entire lives ahead of them.

From what I have heard, there have not been enough studies to make a really good decision, and the studies that have been done have been on subjects college age or older. I'm especially concerned about the mass of female athletes that are beginning to take creatine. God only knows the harmful side effects that creatine could have on females. Younger athletes should be careful too, since their bodies aren't mature. They are probably not ready for the commitment that you have to have to take creatine anyway. How responsible are most 12 year olds anyway.

The main problem with creatine may be trying to stay hydrated, which is especially a problem if it is taken in pill or powder form. If any parents or people younger than 21 are reading this, I hope that you will decide not to take creatine. It may provide results, but wouldn't you always wonder if it was you actually making the gains or if it was the result of some potentially harmful substance that is unregulated because the FDA is not allowed to regulate dietary supplements? It's not worth it to me. Besides, wouldn't it be better to get results naturally?


Response #24

I have been reading up on creatine, and I don't know what to conclude. I myself am going to talk to my doctor about it. Maybe the doctor can help me by giving me information. Until then I will just keep reading up on it. The only thing that bothers me is that people will say anything, backup anything, promise, and get results, whether testimonials or studies (defined in there own terms by them as genuine), when money is involved. If its bad, time will tell, if its good great!


Response #25

Here's my experience with Creatine, for what's it's worth. I have been on Creatine for 5 months and I am satisfied with the results. I follow a sensible diet...nothing extreme, but lots of protein and carbs, fruits and vegetables. I warm-up for 10-15 minutes w/cardio and a solid stretching routine before lifting and drink A LOT of water regularly and another 1/2 gallon while working out. I did urinate a lot the first two weeks, but that balanced out as well I have noticed NO negative side effects with either type of creatine (monohydrate worked a little better for me).

I have realized some good strength gains, but nothing like what some people have. Basically, now I add 5 lbs to most exercises every week instead of every 2-3 weeks. The biggest benefit for me is my bicycling. I can ride much harder even when tired and still feel OK. I never did a loading phase and take creatine 4 days a week. Like I said, this is just my story. I have been working out regularly for 12 years and find creatine to be much like any other reasonable supplement--taken with an eye towards safety and moderation while listening to a good doctor, Creatine can help, but nothing beats training hard with common sense.


Response #26

It is true that any supplement can cause symptomatic problems at anytime. It is essential to know your genetic disposition before you take any over the counter or prescription drug. Creatine should not be taken off the market, but responsibility belongs to the consumer who chooses to use it. We do not need any other right taken away from consumers. Pharmaceutical meds can also cause many symptomatic problems, so again, consumer be aware of what you are taking and do not only take the word from a doctor, nurse, practitioner, nutritionist of friend. Do your own investigation. Again, we do not need any more laws to take away a consumers' right to purchase the products of choice.

RS


Response #27

Uh, hello. Am I the only one that knows about this stuff? My brother took this stuff for like, a long time. This stuff causes major problems. First, he went on this rage attack. Then he like, totally did not focus right. This stuff screws you up. My advice for people that are thinking of taking it: Don't. If you want extra creatine then just eat more meat. Besides meat is more healthy and gives you protein, which this stuff doesn't have.


Response #28

For all the negative things I've been reading in the above statements I have two words: FOLLOW DIRECTIONS. I'll repeat it for the GNC guy, tell the people who are buying Creatine to follow the directions to the "T". More does not mean more muscle. My guess is the people who have health problems never followed the directions, such a consult a doctor before taking this or any supplement.

Body building has been around a lot longer then Creatine and will continue with or without Creatine, and there will always be the bone heads who abuse any product because they lack the correct information. Until you or the other misinformed people get their PHDs and can publish some meaningful responses, I'll put my trust in the doctors who have repeatedly said they can prove no adverse effects from Creatine. My advice to GNC is to stop hiring people to just push (or not push) products that they know nothing about.


Response #29

I bought a bottle of creatine today without reading anything on its effects. EAS said it was safe and helpful so I decided to get it. I took half the recommended dose because six pills seemed extreme for me until I could find out more on the supplement. After reading more on the subject, I've decided that I wont take it until some concrete evidence states that it is safe in the long term. It may help now, but I don't want to wake up one day felling sorry for myself because I'm in some sort of condition caused by its usage. (I'm not saying this will happen to anyone). This is a very hard subject but I really don't think that either side can prove that they are right. There is absolutely no proof that there are not any serious side effects. Until there is, my bottle will stay in my medicine cabinet and not in my gym bag. Russian Roulette is not my game.


Response #30

Hey, I'd Just like to say I've been reading a lot about creatine ever since I herd about it from a coach at my high school and I am very interested in buying some. I think it has just as much of a risk of harmful results as eating food. Like if you eat fried vegetables you get the nutrients from the veggies, but there is fat from the grease and it's the same with creatine. You get the muscle gain results from it but you also get the diarrhea and other possible side effects from it. So I'm just saying there is a price to pay for anything you take into your body and you just have to take the risk if you want to use creatine.


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