Have you ever heard someone say that creatine is a steroid? Well, that's not true! In this post, we're going to clear up this common misunderstanding and also guide you on how to take creatine effectively.
What's the Deal with Creatine and Steroids?
First things first: creatine and steroids are totally different. Creatine is a natural substance in our bodies. It helps our muscles produce energy, especially during quick and intense activities. On the other hand, steroids are synthetic (man-made) substances similar to the male sex hormone, testosterone.
The Truth about Creatine
Different from Steroids: Creatine is an amino acid, found in foods like fish and meat. It's not a drug like steroids. This means it's not only legal but also safe for most people, including kids and older adults.
Safe and Legal: Steroids are controlled drugs, but not creatine! It's perfectly legal and considered safe for many different people. So, whether you're a teenager or an adult, creatine can be a safe choice.
Great for Muscles: Many athletes and gym-goers use creatine to help their muscles grow and to get more energy for their workouts.
How to Take Creatine Effectively
Now that you know creatine isn't a steroid, let's talk about how to use it right.
Loading Phase: Start with a loading phase of 20 grams per day, split into 4-5 doses, for 5-7 days to quickly increase muscle creatine stores.
Maintenance Phase: Then, switch to 3-5 grams per day to keep your creatine levels steady.
Best Time to Take: On workout days, take it close to your exercise time. On rest days, you can take it anytime.
With Food: It's a good idea to take creatine with carbs or a carb/protein mix for better results.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Creatine is not a steroid. It's a safe and natural way to help your muscles. Plus, now you know the best way to take it. Next time you hear someone mixing up creatine with steroids, you'll know just what to say!
What do you think about creatine now? Do you have any experiences to share about using it? Let us know in the comments below, and feel free to share this post to help spread the truth!
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