In the world of sports nutrition and fitness, few supplements have generated as much discussion and controversy as creatine.
From amateur gym-goers to professional athletes, the question of whether creatine is “natty” (short for natural) has sparked numerous debates.
So, what’s the truth behind this widely-used performance-enhancing supplement?
Is Creatine Natty?
The question of whether creatine is “natty” or natural is a topic of debate and misunderstanding.
Creatine is a naturally occurring compound found in the human body, mainly in skeletal muscle. It’s also obtained from dietary sources like meat and fish. When taken as a supplement, creatine monohydrate is typically synthesized through chemical processes.
While creatine supplements are not derived directly from whole food sources, they contain the same molecule found naturally in the body. Therefore, it can be considered a natural substance in the sense that it mimics the body’s own creatine production. The debate often arises from the perception that “natty” refers only to substances obtained directly from whole foods.
It’s crucial to understand that creatine supplements have been extensively researched and deemed safe and effective by reputable organizations. They are widely used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts to enhance performance, increase strength, and support muscle growth.
Moreover, many sports organizations and regulatory bodies permit the use of creatine as a legal dietary supplement, such as the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and the NCAA.
Creatine vs Anabolic Steroids: What’s The Difference?
In this section, we will compare creatine and anabolic steroids and discuss their differences.
Effects
Creatine works by increasing the production of ATP, the primary energy source for muscle contractions. This allows athletes to train harder and longer, leading to increased strength, power, and muscle mass.
Whereas anabolic steroids are synthetic substances that mimic the effects of the male hormone testosterone.
They increase protein synthesis and nitrogen retention in the muscles, leading to increased muscle growth and strength.
Legality
As covered earlier, creatine is approved by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Anabolic steroids, on the other hand, are illegal in most countries without a prescription.
They’re classified as Schedule III drugs in the United States, which means that they have a high potential for abuse and dependence.
The use of anabolic steroids is also banned by most sports organizations, including the IOC and WADA.
Safety
Creatine is generally considered safe when used in recommended doses.
But some people may experience side effects such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, and dehydration.
It’s also important to drink plenty of water when taking creatine, as it can cause the body to retain water.
Whereas anabolic steroids are associated with a range of negative side effects, both physical and psychological.
These include acne, hair loss, testicular shrinkage, mood swings, and aggressive behavior.
Long-term use of anabolic steroids can also lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease, liver damage, and infertility.
Is Creatine A PED?
No, creatine is not considered a performance-enhancing drug (PED) in the traditional sense. It’s a widely used and legally available dietary supplement that’s not prohibited by most sports organizations.
Creatine enhances athletic performance by increasing the body’s stores of creatine phosphate, which helps produce energy during high-intensity activities.
It does not alter hormone levels or provide an unfair advantage beyond what’s naturally achievable.
Is Creatine A Drug?
Creatine is not classified as a drug in most contexts. It’s a naturally occurring compound found in the body and various food sources. When used as a dietary supplement, it is regulated as such and not considered a drug.
However, it’s important to note that regulations and classifications may vary among countries and organizations, so it’s advisable to check specific guidelines and consult with relevant authorities for accurate information pertaining to your location and circumstances.
Is Creatine A Banned Substance?
Creatine isn’t banned by the 3 large sport’s governing bodies – the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the International Olympic Committee (IOC), or the NCAA.
But according to Bodybuilding.com, the NCAA are considering banning the use of creatine.
They believe this is due to the misinformation regarding the safety of creatine.
Do Natural Bodybuilders Use Creatine?
Absolutely – since creatine is not considered cheating by the governing bodies, many natural bodybuilders take it to improve their physiques.
For example, Boris from Boris Aesthetics swears by Staunch Nation Creatine.
Another example is Mika Soltau who is a huge lover of Prozis Creatine.
Conclusion: Is Creatine Considered Natural?
In summary:
- Creatine is natty as it’s not banned by the large governing bodies and it’s a natural substance that our bodies produce.
- Creatine is regulated as a dietary supplement and isn’t considered to be a drug.
That’s all for creatine being natural, but does creatine make your penis smaller? Or does creatine make you pee?
Thanks for reading!
I’ve been in the fitness and strength training industry for nearly a decade. In that time, I’ve gained 30 pounds of muscle, written hundreds of articles, and reviewed dozens of fitness supplements. As for my educational background, I’m a currently studying for my Active IQ Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training.