Can creatine enhance cognitive function? Creatine is a naturally occurring compound synthesized from the amino acids arginine, glycine and methionine. The main role of creatine is to supply tissues with higher energy demand, like the muscle and brain, with energy. It is also thought to play a role in brain plasticity, the growth and restructuring of neural networks, and enhancing performance for strength and power training.

Study Summary

A systematic review investigated 6 studies to determine the impact of creatine supplementation on brain function in healthy individuals, and found:

• Short term memory and intelligence/reasoning is enhanced by creatine supplementation in healthy older individuals.
• Vegetarians have a better memory response after creatine supplementation compared to meat eaters.