By Quanthlete
In their systematic review and meta-analysis, Jaramillo et al. [1] evaluated the effectiveness of creatine supplementation on metabolic performance. The research synthesized findings from various studies to assess how creatine impacts metabolic functions across different populations.
Methodology
The researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis under the PRISMA guidelines for systematic review and meta-analysis. Here’s a breakdown of their approach:
- Systematic Search: They searched in PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library for relevant studies published up to 2023.
- Inclusion Criteria: Studies were included if they Investigated the effects of creatine supplementation on metabolic performance in humans and employed a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design.
- Research Selection: The researchers screened a total of 190,990 studies. After the selection process 10 RCTs were selected for the meta-analysis.
Finding
The analysis revealed the following key point: creatine has a statistically significant impact on muscle growth and strength increase.
Takeaway
This research suggests that creatine supplementation can be a valuable tool to improve metabolic performance, particularly in high-intensity exercise. However, the specific benefits and optimal use of creatine might vary depending on individual factors and exercise types. If you’re considering creatine supplementation, consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian is recommended to determine if it aligns with your training goals and overall health profile.
References:
- Jaramillo A P, Jaramillo L, Castells J, et al. (September 15, 2023) Effectiveness of Creatine in Metabolic Performance: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cureus 15(9): e45282.