In the food and beverage industry, there is growing interest in the potential benefits of creatine supplementation for brain health and function. A recent review published in the journal Sports Medicine highlights the positive effects of creatine on cognition, memory, and sleep deprivation symptoms.
The study indicates that creatine supplementation has shown promising results in improving cognitive measures, particularly in aging adults, and alleviating symptoms related to sleep deprivation. Additionally, creatine supplementation may have potential applications for traumatic brain injury and muscular dystrophy.
The review, presented by Darren Candow, a professor of exercise physiology and metabolism at the University of Regina, Canada, during a Gatorade Sports Science Institute Expert Panel, emphasizes the emerging interest in exploring the brain benefits of creatine across diverse populations.
Previous research has predominantly focused on the effects of creatine monohydrate supplementation on muscle mass, performance, and recovery in young healthy men. However, recent studies have highlighted the potential cognitive benefits of creatine in older adults. The decline of brain creatine content with age suggests that older adults may respond more positively to creatine supplementation.
Scott Forbes, an associate professor at Brandon University in Canada and an author on all three reviews, points out the underappreciated cognitive enhancing effects of creatine. He suggests that creatine as a nootropic has significant potential, but is not widely promoted.
While animal models have been extensively studied, human trials investigating the effects of creatine supplementation on cognitive function are increasing. These trials explore various aspects of cognitive function, including passing accuracy in sleep-deprived rugby players, memory in older adults, cognitive processing in a younger population, brain function in vegetarians, and cognitive performance during acute oxygen deprivation. However, the results have been mixed, likely due to differences in age, sex, dosage, assessment method, and individual responsiveness to creatine supplementation.
Nevertheless, the review underscores the potential of creatine supplementation to enhance cognitive function, provide neuroprotection against traumatic brain injury and neurodegenerative diseases, and alleviate symptoms of mood disorders. However, further research is required to determine the long-term effects of creatine supplementation, alone or in conjunction with exercise, on brain function and health. Furthermore, it is crucial to explore any sex- and age-related differences in the response to creatine supplementation.
In conclusion, this review sheds light on the potential applications of creatine supplementation for brain health and function. With ongoing research, the food and beverage industry can leverage this knowledge to develop innovative products that target cognitive enhancement and promote brain health.
