Creatine Gains Popularity Among Gen Z and Millennials

Once a niche supplement, creatine is now embraced by a wider audience for its cognitive and physical benefits

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:34am by Ben Kaplan

A minimalist, glowing neon outline of a human brain against a dark background, conceptually representing the cognitive benefits of the creatine supplement.Creatine's potential to enhance brain function is driving its growing popularity among younger consumers seeking cognitive support.San Francisco Today

Creatine, long associated with athletes and fitness enthusiasts, is now gaining mainstream appeal among Gen Z and millennial consumers. The supplement's proven benefits for energy, muscle growth, and cognitive performance are driving its increased adoption beyond the gym. As research expands, creatine may evolve from a sports-focused product to a broader tool for healthy aging and daily function.

Why it matters

The rise in creatine's popularity reflects a broader shift in how younger generations view health and wellness. As consumers seek out science-backed supplements to support their overall wellbeing, creatine's versatility is making it an increasingly attractive option. This trend highlights the growing influence of evidence-based nutrition in the mainstream market.

The details

Creatine has been extensively studied and is recognized as one of the most effective supplements for increasing high-intensity exercise performance and lean muscle mass. Recent research also suggests potential benefits for brain function and mood, making it appealing to consumers seeking cognitive support. The global creatine supplements market is projected to grow from $1.3 billion in 2025 to $8.6 billion by 2033, driven by increased adoption among Gen Z and millennials. Safety concerns around creatine's impact on the kidneys have been largely debunked, further contributing to its mainstream appeal.

  • The global creatine supplements market was valued at about $1.3 billion in 2025.
  • The global creatine supplements market is projected to reach $8.6 billion by 2033.

The players

The Vitamin Shoppe

A major retailer of health and wellness products, including creatine supplements. The company has seen a 300% spike in creatine sales between 2019 and 2024.

Grand View Research

A market research firm that projects the significant growth of the global creatine supplements market in the coming years.

International Society of Sports Nutrition

A leading organization that describes creatine monohydrate as the most effective supplement for increasing high-intensity exercise and lean body mass during training.

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What’s next

As research continues to expand, creatine may continue to evolve from a sports supplement into a broader tool for healthy aging and daily function. The conversation around creatine's mainstream appeal is likely to continue, as its potential benefits for cognitive performance and overall wellbeing are further explored.

The takeaway

The rise in creatine's popularity among Gen Z and millennials reflects a broader shift in how younger generations view health and wellness. As consumers seek out science-backed supplements to support their overall wellbeing, creatine's versatility is making it an increasingly attractive option, highlighting the growing influence of evidence-based nutrition in the mainstream market.