- Origin
Synthesized from amino acids
- Format
Monohydrate powder
- Best time
Anytime, daily
What it is
Creatine is a small molecule the body makes from three amino acids and stores predominantly in muscle as phosphocreatine — a fast energy reserve for short, explosive efforts.
How it works
Phosphocreatine donates a phosphate to regenerate ATP during short, high-intensity efforts. Recent research extends its relevance to cognition, particularly under sleep deprivation and stress.
The protocol
5 g of creatine monohydrate daily. No need to load. Timing is unimportant; consistency is everything.
Sourcing
Creapure or any third-party-tested monohydrate. Avoid unnecessarily expensive 'novel' forms — monohydrate is the standard for a reason.
Honest caution
Safe and well-studied. Initial water retention is normal. Drink water; that's the whole protocol.
What it supports
- Strength and power — Improves output across short, high-intensity efforts.
- Cognitive support — Emerging research on cognitive performance, especially under fatigue.







