Creatine: Muscle, Brain & What the Data Actually Says


In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with creatine researcher Dr. Darren Candow from the University of Regina to break down what the research actually says about creatine for muscle, performance, and body composition—plus the newer interest in brain health, aging, and longevity.

We dig into practical dosing (including higher-dose ideas for bone and brain), why timing probably doesn’t matter much, and what the data shows on safety, side effects, and common myths like hair loss.

We also talk about creatine in special contexts like sleep deprivation, jet lag, concussion/TBI potential, and vegan or low-creatine diets, along with how caffeine might (or might not) interfere. If you want an evidence-based, real-world guide to creatine, this one’s for you.

Creatine: Muscle, Brain & What the Data Actually Says << Details here

Episode Chapters:

  • 04:00 How Candow Started Creatine
  • 06:10 Glutamine Reality Check
  • 07:17 Top Supplements Today
  • 08:23 NAD Hype vs Evidence
  • 11:36 Creatine Dosing and Timing
  • 15:06 Brain Uptake and Sleep Loss
  • 18:17 Safety Diet and Essentiality
  • 21:49 Harris Studies and Dose Ranges
  • 24:30 Creatine for Concussion Prevention
  • 26:31 High Dose Game Prep
  • 27:12 Creatine Beyond Sports
  • 29:16 Soccer Cognition Hits
  • 31:38 Caffeine Creatine Myth
  • 35:11 Caffeine Dosing Timing
  • 37:32 Creatine Bone Findings
  • 39:22 Bone Research Reality
  • 43:39 Heart Health Potential
  • 44:20 Creatine Forms Hype
  • 46:30 Future Creatine Research
  • 47:51 Wrap Up Resources
  • 48:37 Conference Manual Plug
  • 51:29 Medical Disclaimer Outro

If you prefer to watch the podcast, check it out below:

Creatine: Muscle, Brain & What the Data Actually Says << YouTube

Much love,
Dr Mike

_____________________

Mike T Nelson CISSN, CSCS, MSME, PhD
Associate Professor, Carrick Institute
Owner, Extreme Human Performance, LLC
Editorial Board Member, STRONG Fitness Mag

Mike T Nelson is a PhD and not a physician or registered dietitian. The contents of this email should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health problem - nor is it intended to replace the advice of a physician. Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health.

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Dr Mike T Nelson

Creator of the Flex Diet Cert & Phys Flex Cert, CSCS, CISSN, Assoc Professor, kiteboarder, lifter of odd objects, metal music lover. >>>>Sign up to my daily FREE Fitness Insider newsletter below

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