Creatine supplementation and aging musculoskeletal health

Endocrine. 2014 Apr;45(3):354-61. doi: 10.1007/s12020-013-0070-4. Epub 2013 Nov 5.

Abstract

Sarcopenia refers to the progressive loss of muscle mass and muscle function and is a contributing factor for cachexia, bone loss, and frailty. Resistance training produces several physiological adaptations which improve aging musculoskeletal health, such as increased muscle and bone mass and strength. The combination of creatine supplementation and resistance training may further lead to greater physiological benefits. We performed meta-analyses which indicate creatine supplementation combined with resistance training has a positive effect on aging muscle mass and upper body strength compared to resistance training alone. Creatine also shows promise for improving bone mineral density and indices of bone biology. The combination of creatine supplementation and resistance training could be an effective intervention to improve aging musculoskeletal health.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aging / drug effects
  • Aging / pathology*
  • Aging / physiology
  • Creatine / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Osteoporosis / drug therapy
  • Osteoporosis / etiology
  • Osteoporosis / therapy*
  • Resistance Training*
  • Sarcopenia / complications
  • Sarcopenia / drug therapy
  • Sarcopenia / therapy*

Substances

  • Creatine