Creatine was discovered in 1832 by French scientist Michel Eugene Chevreul. The name of this element derives from the Greek word “kreas” which means “meat” (creatine was first found in this product). In 1912 two researchers based in the Harvard University Otto Folin and Willie Glover Dennis proved that creatine is deposited in muscles. In the twenties of the 20th century it was proven that this chemical component plays the key role in skeletal muscles metabolic processes.

In 1993 “Experimental and Applied Sciences” (EAS) Company put a new product on the market. Its name was “Phosphagen” – the basis consisted of carbohydrates and creatine monohydrate. Later research results demonstrated that taking creatine in combination with carbohydrates improves its assimilation index.

At the present days there are two types of creatine discovered by modern science. These are: creatine monohydrate (containing one molecule of water) and creatine ethyl ester, abbreviated as CEE. The latter type is thought to be a subject of much intensive assimilation by human organism.

As a matter of fact, creatine promotes physical strength and endurance. Moreover, in combination with intensive physical workout it favors muscle growth. It must be mentioned that sufficient amount of creatine in organism is enough for muscle growth – there is no need to take in this component additionally, because there will be no positive effect of it.

Creatine is prescribed to be taken in with carbohydrates, such as grape juice, water with natural honey diluted in it or any other beverage with sufficient amount of glucose or fructose. Water/juice is recommended to be slightly warm for better absorption of creatine.

As a rule, the course of intake is divided into two phases: 1) loading phase (20-30 g of creatine during 4-6 days) and 2) maintenance phase (2 g daily during 3-4 weeks).
It is important to note that taking creatine might cause negative side effect, so before one starts a course s/he is strongly advised to consult a doctor. Side effects caused by creatine are: indigestion; edema and many others. Creatine is not recommended to be consumed by pregnant and breastfeeding women. Other contraindications are: sugar diabetes; kidney diseases; liver diseases; hypoglycemia and others. In fact, human organism is characterized by a plenty of individual features, so calculating the amount of creatine to be taken in and the algorithm of its intake must be a matter of primary responsibility of a sportsman’s doctor.

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