What is the reasoning behind Creatine not being recommended for under 18s?

Asked by: Tiffany Jyles

“The biggest concern for teens is the potential impurity of the supplement,” says Dr. Michelle LaBotz, a pediatrician in private practice who specializes in sports medicine and co-authored the cautionary position paper on creatine for the American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Sports Medicine & Fitness.

Is creatine safe for teenage use?

It is very safe to take as an adult. However, the American Academy of Pediatricians and American College of Sports Medicine say that teen athletes under 18 should not use creatine and other performance-enhancing supplements.

Does creatine have negative effects on children?

Creatine 2 grams daily for 6 months has been taken safely in children 2-5 years of age. Creatine 0.1-0.4 grams/kg daily for up to 6 months has been taken safely in both infants and children.

Why do you have to be 18 to get creatine?

The minimum age for taking creatine supplements is 18. Because so little is known about the long-term effects of creatine, it’s not recommended for children and teens under the age of 18. For this group, it’s better to improve sports performance through nutrition and athletic training.

Who shouldnt take creatine?

Creatine isn’t recommended for people with kidney or liver disease, or diabetes. Others who should avoid taking it are children under age 18 and women who are pregnant or nursing.

Can a 16 year old take creatine UK?

‘Creatine containers specifically say on the label they are not recommended for use under the age of 18, or not recommended for minors.

Can youth athletes take creatine?

By supplementing with creatine monohydrate immediately following training, you’re able to support muscle growth and recovery, injury prevention, and overall health. Yes, creatine is safe to consume if you are a teen athlete.

What are the negative effects of creatine?

Depending on who you ask, the suggested side effects of creatine may include:

• kidney damage.
• liver damage.
• kidney stones.
• weight gain.
• bloating.
• dehydration.
• muscle cramps.
• digestive concerns.

Is creatine monohydrate safe for 15 year olds?

Both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Sports Medicine are in agreement that teenagers should not use performance-enhancing supplements, including creatine.

Why you should or shouldn’t take creatine?

While taking creatine might not help all athletes, evidence suggests that it generally won’t hurt if taken as directed. Although an older case study suggested that creatine might worsen kidney dysfunction in people with kidney disorders, creatine doesn’t appear to affect kidney function in healthy people.

Why you should and shouldn’t take creatine?

The bottom line
Creatine is a popular sports nutrition supplement that can enhance exercise performance and recovery. It has also been shown to promote healthy muscle aging and improve brain function. The most commonly reported side effects of taking this supplement are bloating and stomach discomfort.

Can a 16 year old take creatine monohydrate?

Metzl, MD, tells WebMD that the American College of Sports Medicine has recommended that people 18 and younger should not use creatine.

Does creatine stunt your growth?

Creatine will not stunt your growth. Quite the opposite, creatine will promote and support growth by helping to strengthen and repair muscles.