Yes, creatine has been shown to support brain health and improve cognitive function. Long-term high-dosage supplementation can increase brain creatine stores, enhancing cognition and memory, particularly in older adults and during times of metabolic stress like sleep deprivation.
A study involving 45 young adult vegetarians demonstrated that oral creatine supplementation (5g/day for six weeks) significantly improved working memory and intelligence test scores, highlighting the importance of brain energy capacity in cognitive performance. It also aids recovery from traumatic brain injury in children and may reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. However, it does not significantly benefit conditions like Parkinson’s disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Ref:
1. Rae, C., Digney, A. L., McEwan, S. R., & Bates, T. C. (2003). Psychopharmacology, 167(4), 447-452.
2. Candow, D.G., Forbes, S.C., Ostojic, S.M. et al. Sports Med 53 (Suppl 1), 49–65 (2023).