Creatine Under 18 Side effects

Creatine is a popular dietary supplement among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. It is often used to enhance performance, increase muscle mass, and improve recovery time after exercise. However, the use of creatine supplements in individuals under the age of 18 is a topic of concern, as it may have potential side effects. In this article, we will discuss the possible side effects of creatine use in individuals under 18 and provide tips for managing them.

Overview of Creatine:

Creatine is a naturally occurring amino acid found in the body. It is produced in the liver, pancreas, and kidneys and is stored in the muscles. Creatine supplements are used to increase the levels of creatine in the body, which may enhance athletic performance and increase muscle mass. However, the safety and efficacy of creatine use in individuals under 18 have not been extensively studied.

Indications for Use: Creatine is often used as a dietary supplement to enhance athletic performance and increase muscle mass.

Dosage and Administration: The recommended dosage of creatine varies depending on the individual’s body weight and fitness goals. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and not exceed the recommended dosage.

Important Precautions and Warnings: Creatine use may cause dehydration, so it is important to drink plenty of water while taking creatine supplements. Additionally, creatine may interact with certain medications, so it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking creatine if you are taking any prescription medications.

Common Side Effects of Creatine Use in Individuals Under 18:

While creatine use is generally considered safe, there are potential side effects that may occur, especially in individuals under 18. The most common side effects of creatine use in individuals under 18 include:

1. Stomach Upset: Creatine use may cause stomach upset, including nausea, diarrhea, and cramping.
2. Dehydration: Creatine may cause dehydration, which may lead to muscle cramps, dizziness, and fatigue.
3. Weight Gain: Creatine use may cause weight gain, which may be due to increased water retention in the muscles.

Tips for Managing or Reducing the Severity of Side Effects:

To manage or reduce the severity of these side effects, it is recommended to:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water while taking creatine supplements to prevent dehydration.
2. Start with a Low Dose: Start with a low dose of creatine supplements and gradually increase the dose over time to minimize the risk of stomach upset.
3. Take with Food: Taking creatine supplements with food may help reduce stomach upset.

Serious Side Effects of Creatine:

While most side effects of creatine are mild and temporary, there are some more serious side effects that can occur. These are relatively rare, but it’s still important to be aware of them.

1. Kidney damage: There have been reports of creatine use leading to kidney damage, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney issues. This may be due to an increase in creatinine levels in the blood, which can put stress on the kidneys. To minimize this risk, it’s important to stay well-hydrated when taking creatine and to not exceed the recommended dosage.
2. Dehydration: Creatine can cause the muscles to retain water, which can be beneficial for exercise performance, but can also lead to dehydration if not properly managed. It’s important to drink plenty of water when taking creatine and to avoid excessive heat and sweating.
3. Gastrointestinal issues: Some users may experience gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, cramping, and diarrhea. This is more likely to occur when taking high doses of creatine, and can often be managed by reducing the dosage.
4. Interactions with medications: Creatine may interact with certain medications, including diuretics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), leading to potentially serious side effects. It’s important to speak with a healthcare provider before taking creatine if you are on any medications.

Precautions and Safety Measures:

To minimize the risk of side effects while taking creatine, it’s important to follow these precautions and safety measures:

1. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water when taking creatine to avoid dehydration and kidney damage.
2. Follow dosage recommendations: Stick to the recommended dosage of creatine and avoid taking excessive amounts.
3. Monitor for side effects: Keep an eye out for any side effects and adjust the dosage accordingly.
4. Consult with a healthcare provider: If you have any medical conditions or are on any medications, talk to your healthcare provider before taking creatine.
5. Take breaks: It’s recommended to cycle on and off of creatine to give your body a break and minimize the risk of long-term side effects.

Conclusion:

While creatine can be an effective supplement for improving exercise performance, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects, particularly in individuals under 18 years old. The most common side effects are mild and temporary, such as muscle cramping and nausea, but more serious side effects such as kidney damage and dehydration can occur in rare cases. By following precautions such as staying hydrated, following dosage recommendations, and monitoring for side effects, individuals can minimize the risk of experiencing side effects while taking creatine. As always, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially in individuals.

Citations and References:

1. Kreider RB. Effects of creatine supplementation on performance and training adaptations. Mol Cell Biochem. 2003 Feb;244(1-2):89-94. doi: 10.1023/a:1022465203458. PMID: 12701815.
2. Creatine. Natural Medicines. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/databases/food,-herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=873. Accessed April 20, 2023.
3. Buford TW, Kreider RB, Stout JR, et al. International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: creatine supplementation and exercise. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2007 Aug 30;4:6. doi: 10.1186/1550-2783-4-6. PMID: 17908288; PMCID: PMC2048496.