Creatine is a simple amino acid synthesized, from arginine and glycine, in the body and stored as creatine phosphate. Discovered in 1831, it has been available for purchase since the 1960's. Creatine is ingested in order to increase athletic performance, such as endurance and power lifting. This supplement enhances ATP regeneration during exercise by acting as an energy reserve. This resynthesis allows more energy reactions to occur.
Creatine monohydrate is a precursor to creatine phosphate.
Using this supplement maximizes the levels of creatine phosphate in muscles allowing more muscular work to occur, since there are greater energy reserves available for use. Creatine increasing endurance by buffering the intracellular hydrogen ions associated with lactate production and muscle fatigue . Use of this supplement does come with downsides. A few speculated side effects have yet to be scientifically verified, including an increases skeletal muscle compartment pressure leading to the risk of muscle dysfunction, and its effects on blood pressure. Cost and the varying degree of results can also be considered a downside.