Has anyone taken creatine supplements to improve low muscle mass?

Posted by tillymack @tillymack, Sep 18 8:18am

I'm hoping to hear from others, especially older women with low muscle mass, regarding the outcome of taking creatine supplements. Many thanks for sharing any experience.

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Profile picture for tillymack @tillymack

I saw 5 g creatine capsules manufactured by a brand I like. Do you remember the dose you took back in the day? That said, my intent is to avoid sarcopenia rather than bulking up 🙂

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@tillymack - I cannot remember the amount since it has been over 30 years since I took it regularly. I am very fortunate that I have always trained with weights either at home or at a gym for over 62 years (I will be 80 in December). In fact, I just finished a workout! My body shape, other than a little belly bulge, is pretty much the same and I have lost no muscle mass in my shoulders, chest or arms. I definitely have other problems but losing muscle mass for me is not one of them.

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Profile picture for mikead63 @mikead63

I did when I was younger and heavily into weight training and creatine helped me put on bulk. Always good to review how much etc. with your physician,

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@mikead63 What would you say are the most effective ways you've used to maintain or increase muscle mass?

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Profile picture for capnjack @capnjack

Well, congratulations. You've discovered sarcopenia. The scary part is it actually started when we were in our 30's. Yes, creatine monohydrate ALONG WITH adequate protein and exercise (especially resistance exercises, i.e., weights, bands, etc.) is helpful. And it's cheap as hell. Bulk Supplements is my source for that and for several related products - protein powders, etc. I regularly put 5-10 grams of creatine in my first morning coffee, so as not to forget taking it. And of course, I NEVER forget the coffee, so...

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@capnjack Thanks 🙂

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Profile picture for tillymack @tillymack

@mikead63 What would you say are the most effective ways you've used to maintain or increase muscle mass?

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@tillymack - I have never not weight trained except after a shoulder surgery. In my younger years I lifted heavier weights with lower repetitions and always had a day off between training. As I got into my 60's I lightened the weights and upped the reps. My chest size is no smaller nor larger than years ago and still muscular. Same for my arms. My legs are slightly smaller with some of that due to previous knee injuries and not putting a lot of pressure on them. I was told by my orthopedic surgeon that I needed a complete right shoulder replacement almost 10 years ago but it hasn't affected my lifting because I know what to stay away from and how not to "tweek" it! I always knew that this was one "sport" that I would never give up knowing it would help me as I hit the "golden" years!

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Good that you knew how to protect and prepare yourself to maximize good health in later years.

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yes, I am taking creatine now in addition to strength training and exercise.

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Profile picture for sstopalian @sstopalian

yes, I am taking creatine now in addition to strength training and exercise.

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@sstopalian I take it every day to help fight cognitive decline. I have taken it about a year and also lift free weights. It certainly caused me to put on a little weight from water retention.

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Thanks for your reply! Are you taking 5 g daily? Have you noticed any increase in muscle mass or hair loss?

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Profile picture for kjoed53 @kjoed53

@tillymack
Yes, that's why it's important to be transparent with your doctors for all supplements. They can do things that we never knew.

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@kjoed53

Can you provide examples, please?

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I think that is something better discussed between you and your doctor. I have discussed my supplements with my doctors and discontinued some and added some at their suggestion. Each of our circumstances are different, and what interacts with my meds may not apply to anyone else. I coordinate my Rx and supplements with my cardiologist, rheumatologist, hematologist-oncologist and my primary care, as I'm being treated for PMR, SMM and electocardio issues.

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