Creatine supplements were linked to modest memory and processing-speed gains in a pooled analysis
Published Jul 12, 2024
Methods
Researchers pooled 16 randomized controlled trials covering 492 participants (ages 20.8 to 76.4) that tested creatine supplementation against a placebo or control on standardized memory, attention, and processing-speed tests.
Findings
Creatine supplementation was linked to a significant improvement in memory scores, and to faster attention and processing-speed times, compared with control. Attention and processing-speed scores themselves (as opposed to reaction times) did not show a significant effect.
Caveats & Context
The authors note real heterogeneity across the pooled trials in design, sample size, and testing methods, and rated the certainty of evidence for processing speed and attention as low. Most included trials focused on healthy adults, so evidence for elderly people or those with cognitive impairment is limited.
The effects of creatine supplementation on cognitive function in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Frontiers in Nutrition · doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2024.1424972