Two things come up when someone asks for bodybuilding advice: protein and creatine. Protein, most people can understand. It helps build muscle and provides energy for more workout reps. More workout reps develop muscle faster, which is also something aided by protein. Creatine works almost the same way as protein, although the approach is different. If it functions the same as protein powder, why take one over the other?
How It Works
Supplements work in various complicated ways. Simply think about it this way with creatine: it takes a lot of water from your body and stores them in your muscles. This leads to a temporary gain in muscle mass, which is actually mostly water, and it provides most of the benefits that protein powder has.
As for the reason that it is popular, here are the top three.
It's Effective
Creatine is proven to be effective time and time again. Numerous studies have been conducted on it and the results have been the same: it works. It builds energy, boosts muscle growth, and improves strength. Similar to protein powder, it allows for more reps, provides energy bursts, and go beyond the usual set workout regimen.
No Side Effects
Perhaps the most popular reason that creatine is recommended is the fact that it has no adverse side effects. The same studies that have shown creatine to be effective also have not been able to find any side effects related to it. Still, it doesn't stop the numerous reports of liver or kidney failure allegedly caused by the supplement. The kidney reports often come from misuse of the product. Since the supplement uses your body's water reserves, it is important to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Other than that, there isn't anything else to watch out for.
Water Weight
While protein directly helps in building mass, building muscle with creatine is a bit more "natural." You get the same benefits as protein, but when you get off creatine, you lose the water weight and your muscles go back to their original, if improved, shape. The best part is, the strength you have acquired from your creatine workouts stays with you.
While creatine is as safe as safe can be, it is still a good idea to consult your doctor before partaking in the supplement. For instance, while the supplement does not do any direct damage to your kidneys, those with pre-existing kidney problems should avoid creatine.
You can find more information about creatine supplements on the web [http://americanurgentcare.org/exercise-fitness/creatine-supplementation-how-it-should-be-done].
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