by Kenzie Barratt
Creatine and Dementia: Could This Simple Supplement Protect Your Brain?
Creatine has long been a staple for gym goers, but recent studies suggest it might do more than help you lift heavier or push through extra reps. Research is uncovering its potential to slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, making it a surprising player in brain health. What Is Creatine? Creatine is a naturally occurring compound stored in your muscles and brain. Discovered in 1832, it gained popularity after the 1992 Olympics, when athletes credited it with boosting their performance. Its primary role is to store and replenish energy, helping your body handle intense activity. While creatine doesn’t directly build muscle, it allows you to train harder, paving the way for better results. Today, creatine’s popularity has soared thanks to viral trends on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. But its benefits go far beyond the gym, including antioxidant properties and the ability to protect brain cells. Huntington’s Disease Huntington’s is a genetic disorder with no cure, and most patients only live about 20 years after diagnosis. Research has shown that creatine might help reduce brain deterioration in people with Huntington’s and even extend their lifespan. While these findings are promising, more studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness. Parkinson’s Disease Parkinson’s is another neurodegenerative condition that currently has no cure. Early research suggested that creatine might protect brain cells and slow the progression of Parkinson’s, but larger trials did not find significant benefits. Although the results have been mixed, scientists continue to study creatine as a potential therapy. Alzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer’s is one of the most common forms of dementia, but its early stages are difficult to diagnose. Research has revealed that people with Alzheimer’s tend to have lower natural creatine levels in their brains. Supplementing with creatine could help slow the progression of the disease, although the exact mechanisms remain unclear. ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) ALS is a condition that gradually robs patients of muscle control by damaging motor neurons. Animal studies have shown that creatine improved motor function and survival rates in models with ALS-related genes. However, human trials have had mixed results, and more research is needed to determine if creatine could benefit those with ALS. Stroke Prevention Studies suggest that creatine could help prevent strokes by supporting brain energy metabolism. It might also assist in recovery by reducing damage to brain cells. While the evidence is still emerging, this adds to creatine’s potential role in maintaining brain health. Memory Loss Creatine has also been shown to improve working memory, which is the ability to create and retain new memories. This is especially helpful for older adults and people on plant-based diets, who tend to have lower creatine levels. How Does Creatine Work? Creatine’s ability to cross the blood-brain barrier is key to its impact on brain health. Once in the central nervous system, it helps produce and store energy while protecting cells from oxidative stress. These effects may explain its potential to slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Beyond brain health, creatine is being studied for other uses, including reducing chronic pain, supporting heart function, and even lowering the risk of preterm labor. Why Creatine Deserves Your Attention Creatine’s reputation as a workout supplement is well-earned, but its broader health benefits make it worth considering for everyone, not just gym goers. It’s easy to add to your routine, whether you mix it into a shake or take it with water before or after a workout.
