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Energy: recovery

Bouncing back after exercise or illness. What people try, how far the research on each has got, and the products that contain them.

What people try

2CreatineStage 2 · Small studies in people · Over-the-counter supplementCreatine is a compound stored in your muscles that supplies them with energy.Main risk: Creatine can cause weight gain because it tends to make the body hold water, but it is otherwise considered safe for healthy adults.

Products

Sorted by the best research stage of each product's ingredients, then by price. The stage describes research on the ingredient, not proof that the product works.

Supplements 9

Optimum Nutrition · powderMicronised Creatine PowderCreatine2 Ingredient research: small studies in people$14.99Optimum Nutrition · gummyCreatine [+]Creatine2 Ingredient research: small studies in people$16.99Optimum Nutrition · powderMicronized Creatine PowderCreatine2 Ingredient research: small studies in people$20.49ThorneCreatine - Travel PacksCreatine2 Ingredient research: small studies in people$36MomentousCreatine - 90 ServingsCreatine2 Ingredient research: small studies in people$42.99ThorneCreatine - 90 ServingsCreatine2 Ingredient research: small studies in people$44ProHealth Longevity · powderLongevity Creatine Pure Powder - 450 gramsCreatine2 Ingredient research: small studies in people$49.95Elysium HealthCreatine+Creatine2 Ingredient research: small studies in people$70ThorneCreatine - 180 ServingsCreatine2 Ingredient research: small studies in people$84

See all the latest research →

What others are writing

Recent articles from health journalists, hospitals and universities. We link to them; we don't write or endorse them.

NPR · Maria Godoy · Sep 1, 2025

Influencers tout the benefits of creatine supplements. Is it healthy or all hype? ↗

Creatine: NPR reports that creatine supplements have strong evidence for adding lean muscle when combined with resistance training, though brain benefits need more research.

Cleveland Clinic · Kate Patton, MEd, RD, CSSD, LD · Jul 17, 2024

Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss? ↗

Creatine: The article says creatine probably does not cause hair loss, though a small study reported DHT increases that others could not reproduce.

health.harvard.edu · Howard E. LeWine, MD · Mar 20, 2024

What is creatine? Potential benefits and risks of this popular supplement ↗

Creatine: The article explains that creatine may enhance athletic performance and is generally safe at 3 to 5 grams daily, with caveats about supplement regulation.

This is general information gathered from the sources listed, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor before starting anything new.