Creatine monohydrate is a popular performance support supplement widely used in the fitness and sports industry. It is taken by regular gym goers and advanced athletes.
Creatine is a metabolite found in animal cells. It is important to recycle the basic energy compound of the body, known as ATP (adenosine triphosphate). In healthy individuals, it is stored in muscle cells and used during physical activities.
Animal products such as meat and fish naturally contain creatine. Creatine is often thought to be harmful to the body, but extensive studies have concluded that creatine is absolutely safe to consume as a supplement at the proper dosage.
Creatine supplements when combined with protein supplements can provide the best results when it comes to muscle gain.
However, some creatine products may cause bloating initially, so products containing micronized creatine are considered safer than regular products. Creatine, when combined with alpha-lipoic acid, absorbs better than when taken alone. Alpha-lipoic acid is known to open the channels through which creatine enters cells.
The Best Creatine Monohydrates to Buy This Year
Many brands are available in the market and online. Most of these creatine powders are micronized.
It is important to check whether these products contain harmful additives. It is also worth looking for certifications from various third-party testing agencies for quality assurance and safety.
Here is an overview of five of these products:
To note: Sportskeeda is not paid for these reviews. All opinions expressed are those of the author.
1) Optimum Nutrition – Micronized Creatine Powder
This popular product from Optimum Nutrition contains 100% pure creatine monohydrate in micronized form.
Micronization involves breaking down the compound into smaller particles by industrial methods. This process dramatically improves the miscibility and absorption of creatine molecules. The product is certified by Informed Choice. The serving size is five grams.
Price: $101.99
2) Nutricost – Micronized Creatine Monohydrate Powder
This product is an ISO accredited third party validated on the basis of potency and purity.
It is also non-GMO and gluten-free. Nutricost is manufactured and packaged in an FDA registered facility certified under Good Manufacturing Practices. It provides five grams of micronized creatine per scoop. Nutricost also offers a 90 day money back guarantee if the user experiences unsatisfactory results.
Price: $54.95
3) Bulk Supplements – Micronized Creatine Monohydrate Powder
Creatine Monohydrate is manufactured and packaged in an FDA registered food facility located in Henderson, Nevada, USA.
This product is tested for purity and potency in their in-house testing lab and other third-party testing labs as well. Manufacturing and packaging are carried out in a factory certified to good manufacturing practices. Creatine Monohydrate in micronized form helps promote anaerobic strength and increase muscle size.
Price: $14.96
4) Naked Nutrition – 100% Creatine Monohydrate Powder
This creatine powder from Naked is free from any artificially synthesized additives. It dissolves quickly in water and is quickly absorbed in the intestine.
It can promote muscle strength, help increase muscle mass and improve athletic performance. It is free from harmful heavy metals, is keto-friendly, gluten-free, non-GMO, soy-free, and vegan.
Price: $51.99
5) Purathlete – Power + Creatine and Magnesium
This type of product is known as creatine chelated magnesium, which means that it combines creatine and magnesium to improve its absorption in the intestines.
It is certified by NSF International. This product might show better results in endurance athletes. However, one should not consume more than the prescribed dose as this formula may have laxative effects. It is free of harmful substances, gluten and diuretics.
Price: $26.99
Carry
Creatine is a safe and effective supplement for increasing muscular endurance, athletic performance and muscle mass.
It has been widely studied for years. Gym goers and athletes can take creatine at the recommended dosage for optimal results. Creatine supplements are safe for both men and women.
People with kidney or liver problems should consult a doctor before purchasing a creatine supplement. It should be kept in mind that a healthy and balanced diet is crucial for gaining muscle and strength.
