Can Creatine Cause Kidney Damage? | James Grage

James Grage here, your Supplement Industry Insider. In this video, we're diving into the long-standing myth that creatine causes kidney damage. We've all heard the rumors, but is there any truth to them?
We're going to be referencing two significant papers published by the International Society of Sports Nutrition, put together by top researchers in the field of creatine supplementation.
We'll also discuss the confusion between the word creatine and creatinine and clarify their meanings. Creatinine is a waste product found in our blood, and its levels are often used as a marker to assess kidney health. However, while creatine supplementation can lead to increased creatinine levels, this doesn’t imply any issue with your kidneys.
To put things into perspective, studies have shown that individuals can take up to 30 grams of creatine per day (about six times the normal dose) for up to five years without any kidney issues. Remember, the key to supplementing wisely is understanding the facts. So, let's ditch the myths and embrace the benefits of creatine supplementation.
Join me as we debunk the myth that creatine causes kidney damage. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more myth-busting videos from your supplement industry insider.

For more videos on taking creatine supplements, check out this playlist Link, which covers topics such as Best Creatine to Take, and side of taking Creatine, such as hair loss, acne, water retention and kidney damage

Chapters:

00:07 - Introduction to the topic
00:26 - Does creatine cause kidney damage?
00:39 - Referencing evidence-based science
01:29 - The difference between creatine and creatinine
02:14 - Understanding creatinine levels
03:03 - Debunking the myth
03:53 - Studies on creatine and kidney health
04:17 - Age safety of creatine supplementation
04:41 - Personal perspective on creatine use
05:20 - Embracing the benefits of creatine supplementation
05:50 - Closing remarks

Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional or physician before starting any new workout, nutrition, or supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medication. The views expressed in this video are based on current research and should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical advice.

[jonathanparedes]

Wow that’s crazy my doctor said I should stop
Taking it since my kidney functions keeps going up 🤔 but I don’t stop thanks for the knowledge my friend

[KeeganMills-qb]

I’m 14 and I have seen so many videos and story’s on creatine saying it’s bad for me and this video has made me feel like is is safe for people my age to take creatine.

[zakirazak]

Thanks James for the explanation. Been on creatine for past 3 months. Did a blood test recently and the doctor said I have a kidney problem. So relieved to know that the doctor is wrong.

[Elpepe-uvdi]

Thank you for making this video. My aunt is currently in school and learned about creatine and it had messed up someone’s liver. I had gotten scared but I had my doubts that what she said is true.

[marioortiz]

James, I've been a loyal follower since your Muscle Geek days. I still enjoy resistance band training at 69 yrs old. Can you suggest a safe & effective protein/testosterone supplement that won't raise my uric acid level?

[sm.]

Excellent videos on the subject. I wanted to know that if your not training for whatever reason (injury, busy, lazy, etc) for 2 months or more, Should one stop taking Creatine or lower the dosage etc?

[mpumelelozungu]

I think it does I have 1 month of using it and in the morning while I was sleeping I stretched out my body and I could feel something wrong with the kidney however I must specify that I haven't been drinking water like I should have been drinking it

[LucasToys]

Hey James, Link to that beautiful cross chain and pendant? Looks awesome!

[colinkelly]

I've been taking creatine every day 5 grams since year 2000. I'm still going to the gym every day, my age is 76

[jensschreiner]

I think an important thing to mention is that creatin does bind water in the muscle and if you drink the same amount of water, you'll be "lacking water" that your kidneys can use to flush out the waste.

So the idea would be, if you're on creatin, you should add at least 15-20% of water daily compared to before.

[TXsilvy]

I’ve only had one kidney stone in my life and it happened to be while i was on creatine. Probably unrelated but after experiencing a stone its not worth the risk😂

[vegnewb]

How did you take creatine in 1990 when it didn't come out until 1993?

[miamidolphinsfan]

However, I am susceptable to Gout Attacks and I don't eat red meat more than 2 times a week, because taking on extra creatine is not good for my system.

[mikemrogers]

Creatine is not recommended for people with compromised/low functioning kidneys. It’s fine for normal kidneys.

[lovlemuscle]

I TAKE 750 MG CREATINE ALKALINE OR MONOHIDRATE NORMAL AND IN THE NEXT 15 MIN I HAVE PAIN IN MY LOWER BACK !! I LOVE IT BUT BECAUSE OF THAT PAIN I DONT TAKE ENYMORE !!! CREATINE IS GREAT BUT I THINK NOT FOR ME THANK YOU !!!

[MrBamnewyork]

wait a minute so if i have kidney disease already can I still take creatine right

[Lucky]

Anyone getting face bloat after this supplement?

[americanmonster]

James is not a Doctor. So, that being written listen too your Doctor.Period.

[eliosp]

Just had two stones almost size of a dime lol. Backing off on my supplementation just in case.