Creatine supplementation linked to increased lean mass in inactive adults

A study conducted by researchers at Texas A&M University suggests that creatine monohydrate supplementation may help combat age-related muscle loss in sedentary adults. The research, published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, focused on healthy, predominantly inactive individuals aged 45 to 65.

Over a 12-week period, participants who took creatine but did not engage in formal exercise saw an average increase of approximately 1.1 kilograms in lean tissue mass. The benefits were even more pronounced in participants who combined creatine supplementation with regular exercise and a calorie-restricted diet; this group saw a lean mass increase of about 1.3 kilograms and a reduction in body fat percentage by an average of 3.2 percentage points.

While the findings are notable for those seeking to mitigate physical decline without intensive training, researchers noted limitations regarding study duration, group sizes, and potential conflicts of interest.