What are creatine’s main drawbacks?

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    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    The main drawbacks of creatine supplementation include weight gain due to increased body water, typically ranging from 0.9 to 1.8 kilograms (2.0 to 4.0 pounds), which can be a concern for athletes in weight-sensitive sports. Additionally, high doses may cause diarrhea and it may slightly negatively affect aerobic capacity.

    Supplementation with creatine typically results in weight gain, partly due to an increase in total body water.[1] The range of weight gain after a creatine loading phase tends to fall between 0.9 and 1.8 kg (1.98–3.96 lbs).[2][3] This may be of particular concern to individuals competing in weight-sensitive sports.

    Diarrhea can occur when too much creatine is taken at one time,[4] in which case the doses should be spread out throughout the day and taken with meals.

    Supplementation with creatine has been reported to negatively affect aerobic capacity to a small degree.[5] It has been speculated that this potential detrimental effect may be related to increases in total body water and body weight following supplementation with creatine.[6]

    What are creatine’s main drawbacks? - Examine