How Does Creatine Work?
When do you take creatine?
Is it best to take creatine before a workout?
Should you take creatine after a workout?
Can creatine be taken on rest days?
These are some of the questions that commonly come up in the minds of fitness enthusiasts.
Let us find out why creatine is so popular and what is the best time to take it.
For decades, creatine has been one of the most well-researched supplements and its benefits extend far beyond just building solid muscles.
Creatine is also well-known globally for its cell protection, anti-aging, and memory support capabilities. This is one of the biggest reasons why creatine supplements are highly popular among both men and women.
In fact, creatine is the first choice for a majority of elite athletes, bodybuilders, powerlifters, fitness enthusiasts, and those participating in weight categories or extreme sports.
When to take creatine?
Undoubtedly, nutrient timing has always remained a hot topic, especially among anyone looking to gain a distinctive edge.
A big part of this stems from solid science that the timing of carb consumption can have a significant impact on aspects of growth, healing, and recovery (like muscle protein synthesis and glycogen replenishment).
The other aspect is highly practical. Everyone wants a better value for their hard-earned money, especially when it comes to nutritional supplements and products we buy.
Let us now talk about the benefits and reasoning of the best times to take creatine.
Before A Workout
The primary argument for consuming creatine supplements before a workout is simple. More supply of creatine in your body equals more ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate), which is the primary source of cellular energy.
This, in turn, means more power and strength being made available to your muscles that further translates to improved activation of muscle fibers and you being able to lift more weights and gaining more muscles.
After A Workout
The primary argument for consuming creatine supplements after a workout is that your muscles get depleted of nutrients after workouts. These are the times when they are "primed and all ready" for a huge influx of nutrients.
If you consume creatine along with your carbs and protein, you can help your body quickly and effectively soak up the powerful creatine and derive all of its benefits.
Whenever You Want
The argument behind "take creatine at any time" is rightly based on the hypothesis that the benefits of creatine can be achieved irrespective of the time. You can take creatine anytime of the day or night.
As long as you supplement with creatine, you will experience its amazing benefits. A study appearing in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition revealed that the benefits of creatine supplementation can be reaped irrespective of the time of intake.
No matter when you decide to take creatine, it is highly beneficial. Just take it whenever it works for you and all you need to do is to stick with it.