Creatine for Cognition and Energy

We have noticed a huge increase in peri/post menopausal women asking us about Creatine over the past few months, and all of our practitioner brands have launched creatine products and are sending us detailed research on it, with some very well thought out compounded combinations. In fact, there has been so much recent exposure of this extremely well studied supplement that we have been convinced to try it ourselves. So, why take Creatine?

Creatine is a foundational supplement that has been studied for decades and its benefits are clear. Recent research now shows its use goes beyond athletic performance, and highlights its role in supporting critical energy metabolism in the brain and muscles. It acts as an energy buffer, aiding in rapid ATP recycling, which is essential for maintaining vitality and cognitive resilience. This has particular relevance during mid-life, where it supports cognitive function, memory, and energy production and can help women experiencing brain fog and energy.

Creatine is also highly suitable for women in the post-menopausal life stage. Clinical evidence indicates that creatine supplementation, when combined with resistance training, helps preserve bone mineral density and supports the maintenance of muscle strength and lean mass. This makes it a valuable addition for long-term health and functional aging.

Why Creatine May Cause Initial Weight Gain

Weight gain when starting creatine is a common and usually temporary effect. It occurs primarily because creatine pulls water into your muscle cells (intracellular water), rather than causing an increase in body fat. This initial shift in water weight is a normal part of the body's saturation process as your muscles increase their creatine stores. It is important to remember that this reflects improved hydration status within the muscle tissue, supporting your energy metabolism and performance, rather than an increase in fat mass.

Who Should Not Take Creatine?

While creatine is widely studied and generally considered safe for most healthy individuals, it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with pre-existing kidney disease or impaired kidney function should exercise caution and consult their healthcare professional before considering supplementation.

It is also recommended that those who are pregnant or breastfeeding seek guidance from a qualified practitioner to ensure it is appropriate for their specific health needs. As with any new supplement regimen, especially if you are taking other medications, please discuss this with our naturopaths or your primary healthcare provider first to ensure it is appropriate for your specific health needs.

Why We Choose Third-Party Tested Creatine

When selecting a creatine supplement, quality and purity are paramount. Not all creatine products are created equal, and it is crucial to ensure that what is on the label is exactly what is in the jar. We prioritize supplements that undergo rigorous, independent third-party testing, such as HASTA™ (Human and Supplement Testing Australia) certification.

HASTA™ certification means that every batch is tested by an ISO 17025-accredited laboratory. This independent verification screens for a broad list of substances prohibited under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code, as well as testing for heavy metals, microbial contamination, and label accuracy. For our customers, this provides an essential layer of safety and confidence, ensuring the product is free from contaminants and accurately dosed, moving beyond manufacturer self-disclosure.

We love getting feedback on how things are going for our customers, and many menopausal women have been reporting a slow but notable benefit to cognition and energy from creatine. Feel free to ask us how it's going for us when you come in!