Creatine and whey protein are two common supplements people take to increase strength, speed, and muscle growth. However, taking these supplements safely can be tricky. Below is a guide on handling these supplements safely, so you don’t experience any adverse side effects.
Creatine monohydrate has been the essential supplement of many bodybuilding enthusiasts for years. Additionally, many people who take this supplement also take whey protein regularly, maximizing the potential of their exercise and stimulating their muscles to result in maximal growth possible without getting injured or sore.
While both of these substances are naturally generated in our body, taking additional doses of these is likely not to trigger any serious side effects. Nevertheless, before taking any of the two, talk to your doctor and read through the lines below.
- Start with a low dose and increase gradually over time.
- Take creatine with a meal to minimize gastric discomfort.
- Avoid drinking alcohol while taking creatine or whey protein.
- Avoid using supplements in extreme conditions, such as during an intense workout.
As far as whey protein is concerned, in general, all consumers of this protein powder should bear in mind that it contains milk extracts that could be dangerous for people with lactose intolerance. Such individuals should only take types of whey protein containing less than 1% lactose.
Also, all whey protein consumers must remember that too much of anything is not a good thing. Simply, taking doses larger than those adequate for you can lead to kidney or liver problems since these two organs are in charge of processing this protein.
Therefore, the best step would be to consult your doctor and ask for their advice on the dosage and frequency of intake.
As for creatine monohydrate, it has more potentially dangerous effects than whey protein. Namely, excessive doses of creatine may lead to kidney and muscle damage, cramps, digestive problems and flatulence, diarrhea and lightheadedness, liver dysfunction, hypertension, and sudden weight gain.
Fortunately, most people use creatine without experiencing any of the above side effects. Again, the key to safety is sticking to the prescribed or recommended doses and not using creatine continually for more than half a year.
Creatine can also be dangerous for your health if you take it while taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen since this combination can trigger adverse effects.
Naturally, individuals who suffer from kidney or liver problems must consult with their doctors before taking creatine. The same goes for those who have a history of blood pressure problems.
In general, the benefits of creatine monohydrate and whey protein surpass the potential side effects they can cause. Nevertheless, for your health’s sake, it is always an excellent choice to do your research on these supplements before actually taking them and ask your doctor for an opinion.
Also, these forms of supplementation are worthless unless you lead a physically active life. Therefore, ensure you are on a strict bodybuilding workout before taking these substances.
To sum it all up, creatine monohydrate is an excellent metabolite that stimulates muscle growth through water retention in the muscles and the addition of ATP supplies in your body, preventing muscle damage and deterioration.
On the other hand, whey protein is good since it provides your muscles with valuable proteins they need for growth. Take these carefully, and you will have no problems shaping your body the way you want it.
Conclusion
Taking creatine and whey protein can be safe if you follow the guidelines set by the experts. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids, especially water, when taking these supplements to avoid any adverse effects.
Also, monitor your own body’s response and adjust your dosage accordingly. If you experience any adverse side effects, stop taking the supplements and consult a health professional.
