Best Creatine Monohydrate for Men 2023
Creatine is a naturally occurring compound that is found in small amounts in foods like meat and fish. It is also produced by the body in small quantities, mainly in the liver, pancreas, and kidneys. Creatine plays an imporntant role in supplying energy to cells, particularly during high-intensity, short-duration activities like weightlifting, sprinting, and jumping.
Due to its ability to increase ATP production, creatine has gained popularity as a dietary supplement among athletes and bodybuilders. According to a study, creatine supplementation combined with complex training improved maximal muscular strength and reduced muscle damage during training.
Best Type of Creatine for Muscle Growth
Several types of creatine supplements available on the market, including Creatine Monohydrate, Creatine Hydrochloride (HCl), Buffered Creatine and Micronized Creatine.
Creatine monohydrate is typically regarded as the most efficient and thoroughly studied form of creatine when it comes to muscle growth. It has consistently demonstrated positive results in numerous studies and is recommended by many experts and sports nutrition organizations.
Other forms of creatine might have some advantages in terms of solubility, absorption, or potential gastrointestinal problems, but there isn't enough evidence to say for sure that they're better at promoting muscle growth.
Creatine monohydrate is typically regarded as the most efficient and thoroughly studied form of creatine when it comes to muscle growth. It has consistently demonstrated positive results in numerous studies and is recommended by many experts and sports nutrition organizations.
Other forms of creatine might have some advantages in terms of solubility, absorption, or potential gastrointestinal problems, but there isn't enough evidence to say for sure that they're better at promoting muscle growth.
Creatine Dosage for Muscle Growth
The most effective and rapid way to increase muscle creatine stores is to ingest 5 g of creatine monohydrate four times daily for 5–7 days (i.e., 0.3 g/kg/day). However, some studies have shown that consuming 2–3 g/day of creatine for 30 days can also effectively increase muscle creatine stores. (Source)
Other Creatine Benefits
- Increase strength and power
- Enhance exercise capacity
- Improve anaerobic performance
- Increase muscle endurance
- Improve Mood and Cognition
Best Creatine Monohydrate for Men
1. Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine Monohydrate Powder
- 5 grams pure creatine monohydrate per serving
- supports increases in energy, endurance and recovery
- maximum potency supports muscle size, strength, and power
- supreme absorbency micronized to get the most out of each dose
Suggested Use
Creatine Loading: Take 1 rounded teaspoon of Micronized Creatine Powder with morning, afternoon, and evening meals and 1 additional rounded teaspoon before going to bed for 4-5 days to help saturate your muscles with creatine.
Creatine Maintenance: Take 1 rounded teaspoon with a meal or immediately after training with your post-workout protein shake. TIPS: Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily when supplementing with creatine. Consuming simple carbohydrates with creatine may
2. NutraBio Creatine Monohydrate - Purest Creatine Available
NutraBio’s high quality Creatine Monohydrate is independently tested and verified to be at least 99.98% pure creatine monohydrate, ensuring you get the full 5g of creatine in every serving.
- Pure Creatine
Creatine dissolves easily when mixed and Monohydrate is the most studied form of creatine available.
- Lean Muscle Gain
Research shows that supplementing creatine can increase muscle mass, strength, and endurance. Saturating your muscles with creatine improves your body's ability to recover by helping the body replenish ATP; increasing muscle energy and delaying fatigue.
- Without Compromise
NutraBio’s creatine is certified kosher, non-GMO, gluten free, BSE/TSE free, hypoallergenic, free of fillers, and suitable for vegetarians.
- Full Label Disclosure
All NutraBio products feature fully transparent labels with no proprietary blends. The amount of each ingredient is listed, down to the flavoring and sweeteners.
Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 - more than 5,000 global ratings
I mixed it into my pre-workout and I didn't mind it. Barely noticed it. I didn't have any negative side effects. I drink a LOT of water so it doesn't dehydrate me. My muscles look bigger faster (from lifting weights). I recommend!
3. NatureBell Creatine Monohydrate Powder
NatureBell pure, unflavored creatine monohydrate powder. The perfect pre workout or post workout powder drink additive that is created with micronized ingredients for overall superior absorption. Effortlessly mix or combine with any of your favorite drinks and fitness supplements for the ultimate performance inside and outside the gym.
Easily absorbed Non-GMO creatine powder. Made with keto & vegan friendly ingredients that are free of gluten, wheat, soy, dairy, eggs, fish/shellfish, tree nuts, and peanuts. It is also 3rd party lab tested for purity and potency.
Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 - more than 4,100 global ratings
This stuff is great. Took about a month before it fully was in my system. Huge improvement on my muscle growth and strength. I will keep buying this. Love it!
4. Animal Chews Creatine Monohydrate - Best Creatine Chews
- The Power of Creatine in a Chew
Increase strength, boost endurance, improve workout performance, delay fatigue and promote muscle energy with this next level supplement, four chews provide 5g of Creatine
- Grab-and-Go Convenience
No messy powder, no mixing, no shaking, just toss some chews in your gym bag and enjoy the benefits of Creatine wherever you are
- Superior Formula For Better Results
This clinically tested formulation combines Creatine Monohydrate with Sea Salt and patented ingredients to go beyond what creatine alone can offer
- Made to the Highest Quality & Safety Standards
All of our products are produced in our GMP certified US plant, and every batch is 3rd party lab tested for quality, safety and potency; thanks to our intentional formulations our products work synergistically across our range
Ratings: 4.3 out of 5 - more than 1,200 global ratings
They taste pretty good to me so taking one daily is not a problem. I add an additional tablet on my work out days, about 4-5 days a week. After one month of taking it I am up 2lbs. This is from a person who has a very difficult time gaining muscle mass.
5. Nutricost Micronized Creatine Monohydrate Capsules
Nutricost, located and headquartered in the USA, only uses the best ingredients to ensure maximum quality and to help you feel your best!
- 3000mg Per Serving, 750mg of Micronized Creatine Monohydrate Per Capsule
- 500 Capsules (125 Servings) of Creatine Monohydrate Per Bottle
- Simple Formulation for Maximum Effect
- Non-GMO and Gluten Free
- Manufactured In a GMP Compliant, FDA Registered Facility
Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 - more than 4,400 global ratings
I've always had trouble building muscle mass and have stayed away from supplements other than protein shakes after a workout. Now I take Creatine Monohydrate pre workout, BCAA during workout and protein post workout. This combo while working out 5 days per week has allowed me to put on noticeable upper body muscle in only 4 weeks.
I'm confident the most important part (besides the working out of course) is the Creatine. Loaded for 5 days as per the instructions. It dissolves fairly easy in water and basically has no taste. At only $17 per jug it's well worth the money.
6. Cellucor Cor-Performance Creatine Monohydrate
- Increase strength
You workout to get stronger! COR-Performance Creatine harnesses the power of Creatine monohydrate to support you as you reach your goals
- Promotes muscle growth
Creatine is a legendary supplement for building muscle. COR-Performance Creatine highlights Creatine monohydrate to optimize lean muscle growth
- Micronized formula for better absorption
COR-Performance Creatine contains a micronized form of Creatine monohydrate Complements other muscle building products: COR-Performance Creatine comes unflavored, so you can mix it into your pre-workout or amino-recovery product to enhance results
Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 - more than 6,600 global ratings
I’ve been using this creatine powder as a pre-workout for weeks! It is one of the best pre-workout, supplements that I have found! I had one scoop to one bottle of water, and that gives me energy and helps to build lean muscle that is shown real given results in my workouts!
7. Bucked Up Micronized Creatine Monohydrate
- 5000mg of Creatine Monohydrate per Serving
- 50 Servings/250g per Bottle - Powder is Unflavored, Vegetarian & Non GMO
- Complements your Workouts, for Daily Life, and Focus in the Gym
- Cellular Hydration - Hence why some otherwise dehydrated folks complain about looking soft the first week of starting Creatine Monohydrate
- Ultra High Quality Creatine Monohydrate - Manufactured in a GMP Compliant Facility that is FDA Registered
I use this for muscle building!! I can definitely see a difference and feel a difference, one main thing to know is drink lots of water with this product to avoid headaches
FAQ
a. How to Maximise Creatine Results
To maximize the potential benefits of creatine supplementation for muscle growth, here are some recommendations:- Follow a loading phase: For the first 5-7 days, you can follow a loading phase to quickly saturate your muscles with creatine. Take four equal doses of a higher creatine dosage, typically around 20 grams per day, during this phase. This loading phase helps to rapidly increase creatine levels in the muscles.
- Transition to a maintenance phase: After the loading phase, switch to the maintenance phase, where you take in less creatine to keep your muscle creatine levels elevated. An average maintenance dose is between 3 and 5 grams per day.
- Timing and consistency: Take your creatine supplement consistently every day to ensure a continuous supply of creatine to your muscles. Although there isn't a spesific "best" time to take creatine, it is frequently advised to take it around your workout to maximize its absorption during intense exercise. However, it will still be beneficial to take it at any time of the day.
- Pair with resistance training: Creatine has advantages on its own, but combining it with resistance training can promote muscle growth even more. Regularly lift weights or perform other resistance exercises to promote muscle growth and make use of the extra energy that creatine provides.
- Combine with carbohydrates: Consuming creatine with carbohydrates may enhance its uptake into the muscles. However, some studies are not supporting this statement.
- Stay well-hydrated: Creatine can cause water retention within the muscles, so it's important to stay adequately hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Always drink a sufficient daily water intake to support overall hydration and to prevent any potential side effects.
- Keep a healthy diet: Make sure you're getting enough calories and maintaining a healthy diet to support your training objectives.
- Consult with experts: Before beginning any supplementation regimen, it is always advisable to speak with a healthcare professional, sports nutritionist, or registered dietitian. They can make personalized recommendations based on your individual requirements, state of health, and training targets.
b. Is It Necessary to Cycle Creatine?
The necessity of cycling creatine is not well supported by research. Many people opt to use creatine nonstop without stopping. If you'd rather cycle creatine, you can take it for a set amount of time (for example, 8–12 weeks), then take a break for 4–8 weeks, and then resume supplementation. Cycling is a personal preference so it might not be required for everyone.
Our Take
Creatine itself does not directly build muscle. However, by enhancing strength, power, and exercise performance, it can indirectly promote muscle growth. By improving these factors, creatine supplementation can allow individuals to train harder and recover faster, potentially leading to increased muscle growth over time.When used as recommended, creatine is generally considered as safe for the majority of users, but it can have a few minor side effects, like gastrointestinal discomfort, muscle cramps, or weight gain from water retention. Additionally, it is always advised to seek medical advice before adding any type of creatine supplement into your regimen, especially if you have ongoing medical conditions or are taking other medications.
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