Effects of creatine supplementation on renal function
For quite some time, regardless of the research, the mainstream media has mislead people in believing that creatine can cause renal(kidney) dysfunction. While previous research has shown no such connection in healthy individuals, more research continues to be published, supporting creatine’s safety. A recent study in 2008 looked at renal function in healthy males, ages 18-35 years old. It was a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study, with the placebo group ingesting dextrose and the treatment group, ingesting 10 grams of creatine a day. Individuals underwent three training sessions a week for three months.
The researchers looked at serum creatinine, serum and urinary sodium and potassium and cystatin C levels. No significant changes were seen on renal function between the placebo group and the creatine group.This study adds to the body of evidence, that in healthy individuals, creatine does not cause any renal issue.
Another media myth exposed by actual published research.
Gualano B, Ugrinowitsch C, Novaes RB, Artioli GG,et al.
Effects of creatine supplementation on renal function: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Eur J Appl Physiol. 2008 Jan 11 [Epub ahead of print]
