Creatine Supplements Gain Popularity for Broader Health Benefits

Recent research suggests creatine's advantages extend beyond muscle growth, impacting brain health, bone strength, and recovery.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Creatine, long a staple in the strength training community, is gaining attention for its broader health benefits beyond just muscle growth. New studies indicate creatine can aid workout recovery, improve cognitive function, and help preserve muscle mass in older adults. As a result, creatine's appeal is widening to include women, vegans/vegetarians, and those looking to maintain healthy aging.

Why it matters

The expanding research on creatine's advantages is driving increased interest and innovation in the supplement market. Experts predict the future of creatine supplementation will see new formulations, personalized protocols, and more creatine-infused food and beverage products to meet the needs of a growing demographic of users.

The details

Creatine works by increasing phosphocreatine stores in muscles, providing readily available energy for high-intensity activities. But recent studies show its benefits extend beyond just physical performance - creatine has been linked to improved workout recovery, better memory, and cognitive processing speed. Traditionally marketed to athletes, creatine is now being recommended for women, older adults, and those on plant-based diets, who may particularly benefit from supplementation.

  • A 2021 study on creatine's role in workout recovery was published in Nutrients.
  • A 2024 paper in Frontiers in Nutrition revealed creatine's link to improvements in memory and cognitive processing.

The players

Jordan Mazur

Director of Nutrition for the San Francisco 49ers.

Jonathan Poyourow

A sports dietitian at Johnson & Wales University.

Kelly Pritchett

A professor at Central Washington University.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The expanding research on creatine's advantages is driving increased interest and innovation in the supplement market, with experts predicting the future will see new formulations, personalized protocols, and more creatine-infused food and beverage products to meet the needs of a growing demographic of users.