Date of Defense

Spring 4-24-2007

Department

Biological Sciences

First Advisor

Susan Stapleton, Chemistry

Second Advisor

Cindy Linn, Biological Sciences

Keywords

nutrients, oral supplements

Abstract

Creatine is an endogenous compound that is found in various parts of the body, primarily skeletal muscle. It can also be obtained from the diet in either meat products or as a supplement. Its most basic function is supplying ATP for energy consuming processes, such as muscle contraction, through a buffer system utilizing the enzyme creatine kinase. Creatine also exerts an effect on other energy related compounds such as phosphofructokinase, AMPK and GLUT4. As a supplement, Cr has been shown to have a positive effect on anaerobic physical activities requiring high intensities. The effects that supplemental creatine has on aerobic, endurance type activities are still debated and must be further investigated. There have been a few reports of negative effects caused by creatine such as gastrointestinal distress, muscle cramping and renal failure. However, most of these reports have been anecdotal in nature. The majority of studies have found supplemental creatine to be safe for consumption, yet there remain to be studies investigating the long term effects of creatine supplementation.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Campus Only

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