The Library Brands All Products for Encyclopedia Health Concerns Vitamins, Minerals, etc. However, outcomes for trained athletes in competitive situations have not been consistent. Creatine supplementation has been reported to improve strength in rare diseases of muscle and energy metabolism. For people with congestive heart failure , intravenous creatine has been found to improve heart function, but oral supplementation has not been effective, though skeletal muscle function does improve.
Creatine is produced naturally in the human liver, pancreas, and kidneys.
It is concentrated primarily in muscle tissues, including the heart. Supplements in the form of creatine monohydrate are well absorbed and tolerated by the stomach. Individuals involved in intense physical activity, especially those limiting their intake of red meat, may have low muscle stores of creatine. Two methods are used for supplementing with creatine. Taking creatine with sugar appears to maximize muscle uptake.