New Study Challenges Effectiveness of Creatine for Muscle Growth

Creatine has long been a staple in the fitness world, hailed as a powerful supplement for muscle building. However, researchers at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia, have cast doubt on this notion. Their recent study suggests that creatine may not enhance muscle growth as previously believed.

A Deeper Look into the Research

The study, published in the journal Nutrients, monitored individuals engaged in a rigorous weightlifting program over three months. Remarkably, participants taking creatine gained the same amount of muscle as those who did not take the supplement during their workouts.

Dr. Mandy Hagstrom, a senior author of the study and exercise scientist at UNSW’s School of Health Sciences, expressed her surprise at the findings. She stated, “Our research demonstrates that a daily intake of 5 grams of creatine does not significantly influence the increase of lean muscle mass during resistance training.”

Study Methodology and Findings

The trial involved 54 healthy participants, aged between 18 and 50, who were randomly assigned to two groups. Both groups completed a structured 12-week resistance training regimen that included three supervised workouts weekly.

Participants in the creatine group started taking the supplement one week prior to the training, entering a phase known as