Creatine
Creatine is such an integral part of skeletal muscle that its name is derived from the Greek word for flesh, or kreas, from where it was originally isolated nearly one hundred and seventy years ago (1835). The man credited with this discovery was the French scientist and philosopher, Michel Eugene Chevreul. Shortly afterwards (1847) the German scientist, Justus von Liebig, helped promote a commercially available extract of meat that he claimed would help the body perform extra work. The secret ingredient in Liebig's "Fleisch Extrakt" was creatine.
Athletes and weight lifters use creatine because they feel that it increases their muscle mass, gives extra energy, and allows them to train longer and harder. Many body builders swear by creatine.
Creatine is also thought to play an important role in the nervous system, where it provides the energy for proper nervous system functioning as well as for recovery from trauma and disease.
Research suggests that creatine may have value for athletes, especially endurance athletes such as runners or recreational athletes. Proven potential for developing strength shows it the way of giving an elite athlete an edge of a few seconds or a small amount of additional strength.
Additional research is needed on taking creatine. Most research has been on the effects of creatine on college age men in excellent health.
See also: What's in Your Creatine?
