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Creatine and AngerCreatine is a natural nutrient found in our bodies. Most of the needs of creatine of the human body can be fulfilled through a balanced diet. However, bodybuilders, athletes and a vast majority of individuals following a fitness regimen resort to creatine supplements because they have proven to increase body mass and lean muscle formation, in a very short span of time. Creatine is available in several forms on the market – creatine phosphate, creatine citrate and creatine monohydrate. Among these, creatine phosphates are not easily absorbed by the body, and thus do not yield effective results. The creatine citrate is gaining in popularity among users, yet industry analysts confirm that studies about this product are few and far between. The most popular form of creatine is the creatine monohydrate. Nearly all successful clinical trials have been on this form of creatine. Though creatine supplements allegedly do not have side effects, users have reported that they suffer from mental mood swings, anger, and increased aggressive behavior, among other short term side effects. Anger and aggressive behavior seems to be one of the most reported side effects among users, both male and female. A reason for this could be the increase of testosterone levels in the users. Testosterone – a male hormone, besides being responsible for growth of muscle mass, increased bone density and development of sex organs, is also said to increase aggressiveness in behavior. Independent users have claimed that they suffered from bouts of depression and increased aggressiveness when they took creatine. When they stopped taking creatine, or when they took a break from creatine, they felt “happy” and “light”. The bouts of depression returned when creatine intake was resumed. An independent study proclaimed that increased mood swings, depression and anger in creatine users is found because creatine users fail to drink enough water while taking creatine. The study stated that dehydration was the main reason behind such mood swings and, though creatine users are usually advised to drink lots of water, few comply with the advice. The study further stated that such mood swings would accelerate if the user is already on an anti-depressant or is taking lithium for medicinal purposes. According to the study, to alleviate such mood swings, creatine should be used responsibly and the ideal way to do this would be to limit intake to 3 to 5 grams almost every day for three weeks followed by 3 grams two to four times a week. It is also recommended that users take a break from creatine for at least a week, in a month. Also, some forms in which creatine is available, like the liquid form or the olate form, aren’t as effective as claimed. Users must consult their physician to choose the best and the most effective creatine, and the proper dosage of creatine.
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