The Benefits of Creatine for Aging
Creatine is one of the most popular supplements in the fitness world. It has been used for years by athletes looking to increase their muscle mass. By taking creatine, many young men have seen their performance improve in both the gym and athletic field. However, creatine can be used for more than just bulking up. Research has shown that it can actually be used to help combat the signs of aging. Here are the benefits of creatine for aging.
What is Creatine?
Creatine is a naturally occurring amino acid that is found in your muscles and brain. Creatine is used by the body to create energy. This is why it can increase muscle mass and improve performance in sports. You can get creatine by consuming red meat and seafood, however many people choose to supplement with creatine in order to get more in their diet.
Benefits of Creatine for Older Adults
Increase Muscle Mass
One of the most frustrating aspects of aging is the loss of muscle mass. Once you hit 40, your body naturally starts to lose muscle mass. This process is called sarcopenia. Loss of muscle mass is the reason why older adults become frail and have trouble doing everyday activities like walking, cleaning, and traveling. It can be especially worrisome when they fall. Fortunately, strength training can not only stop the loss of muscle mass but actually reverse it. This is where creatine comes in. When older adults supplement with creatine, they can reverse the effects of sarcopenia, even when they do not strength train. When combined with resistance training, an older adult’s quality of life can increase dramatically. Creatine and strength training can also increase bone strength, another important way to combat aging.
Improve Brain Functions
An exciting benefit of creatine is its effect on cognitive functioning. Older adults often decline cognitively as they age, some more than others. However, when the brain contains high levels of creatine, neurofunctions do not deteriorate as quickly. Studies have shown that when older adults supplement with creatine, their short- and long-term memory improves. This means it could help those who suffer from Alzheimer’s or memory loss from strokes. Creatine also increases dopamine levels in the brain. This is one reason why creatine may help patients with Parkinson’s disease because it effects muscles, but starts in the brain. Research also shows that creatine may be able to slow the effects of other neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington’s and ALS.
How to Take Creatine
Creatine is a safe and easy supplement to use. It usually comes in powder form, which you can mix with water or Want to add a caption to this image? Click the Settings icon. blend into a smoothie. Vegetarians can benefit from creatine supplements since they do not consume red meat or seafood. If you are unsure of how much creatine you are getting in your diet, consult with your doctor. It’s always a good idea to check in before you begin a new supplement.
Creatine is more than just a performance enhancer for men who want to bulk up at the gym. It can have a huge impact on your quality of life. Muscle loss and cognitive decline are two major concerns for adults as they age and creatine can help with both of those. You may find that adding creatine to your diet will help you live a healthy and happy life.