Although creatine may be of benefit for a select group of athletes involved in sports that require repetitive bursts of power and energy, too little is known about its long-term health effects. The use of creatine is widespread. More than 5.5 million pounds were consumed in the United States in 1998. To further improve sales, product manufacturers now mix it with sugar, add lime flavoring and sell it as an appealing, easy to swallow pill. Currently, its use is not disallowed in Olympic competition.
Creatine is a naturally occuring dietary substance found in meat and fish.
And your body makes creatine, mainly in the liver. Once entered into your muscles, it provides energy for high intensity, short duration activities such as sprinting, weight lifting and jumping. Not all athletes respond to creatine use. Creatine does not improve aerobic performance. Creatine also can be associated with unwanted side effects.