Why Creatine Matters as You Age
For many years, people believed that creatine was only meant for athletes who wanted to build large muscles. Flashforward to today, and we are seeing a major shift in how the world views this powerful molecule. Which is incredibly exciting. As we grow older, our bodies naturally begin to change. We start to lose muscle mass, and our bones can become more fragile as well. Creatine is a natural molecule that helps our cells create the energy they need to keep us moving and thinking clearly.
One of the biggest challenges of ageing is actually a condition called sarcopenia. This is the medical term for the loss of muscle mass that happens as the years pass. This often starts after the age of fifty and can lead to a higher risk of falling. We also face something called dynapenia, which is the loss of muscle strength. These changes are often made worse by something scientists call inflamm-ageing, which is a type of long-term inflammation that affects our protein metabolism. Lots of technical terms, but you get the idea. Creatine basically acts like a backup battery for your muscles. It helps your body produce a molecule called adenosine triphosphate, which is the main source of energy for your cells. When you have more of this energy, your muscles can work harder and recover faster - brilliant. This helps you stay independent and prevents the frailty that often comes with getting older.
Strong muscles are, of course, closely tied to strong bones. When your muscles are powerful, they put healthy pressure on your skeleton. This tells your body to keep your bones thick and sturdy. Creatine helps by slowing down the process by which the body breaks down bone tissue. This is very, very important for preventing fractures and keeping your frame solid as you age. By improving your balance and your physical power, creatine reduces the risk of falling. It is a simple way to protect your physical freedom for a much longer time.
While we often talk about the body, we must also think about the brain. Your brain is a very hungry organ that uses a large amount of your daily energy. About five per cent of the creatine in your body is stored in the brain and other tissues. As we grow older, the levels of creatine in our brains can start to drop. This can lead to mental fatigue or trouble with memory. Supplementing with creatine may provide the brain with the fuel it needs to stay a little sharper. Research shows that adults over the age of fifty-five often see improvements in their attention and their ability to remember things. It helps the brain cells stay healthy and energised so you can maintain your mental clarity.
Many people are worried about the safety of taking supplements. Which is a valid point. Some believe that creatine is like a steroid or that it might hurt the kidneys. These are common myths that have been proven wrong by decades of science and research. Creatine is a safe and natural substance that is already found in foods like red meat and seafood. It is made in your liver and kidneys from amino acids called arginine, glycine, and methionine. It most definitely does not cause hair loss or damage your internal organs. 680+ studies have shown that it is one of the safest supplements in the world. It simply helps your body perform at its best without any of the risks of artificial chemicals.
To see the best results, you only need to take a small amount each day. A dose of 3 to 5 grams is the standard recommendation for most adults. It is most effective when you combine it with light weight lifting or resistance training a few times a week. The supplement gives your cells the energy, and the exercise gives your muscles the reason to grow. Daily use is important because your body uses up its stores every single day. If you stay consistent and take it every morning, you are investing in your future self. It is a simple step that helps your body and your mind stay strong for all the years ahead.
We all rise together,
Rachael Jennings | Co-Founder + CBO, Jenerise
