"My doctor told me my creatinine levels were high. Does that mean my kidneys are failing?"
This is the single most common question we get from customers over 50. And the answer reveals why the "Creatine Kidney Myth" has persisted for so long.
Let's get straight to the point: For healthy individuals with no pre-existing kidney disease, creatine has been proven safe in hundreds of studies.
So, where did the fear come from? It comes from a simple misunderstanding of how blood tests work.
The "False Alarm" on Your Blood Test
When you go for a checkup, your doctor measures a waste product in your blood called Creatinine (notice the extra 'in').
High creatinine levels usually indicate that your kidneys aren't filtering blood properly.
However, when you take creatine supplements, your body naturally breaks some of it down into... you guessed it... creatinine.
The Key Distinction
Taking creatine raises your blood creatinine levels artificially. It's not because your kidneys are failing; it's because you are putting more into the system. It's a "false positive" on the test.
What to do: If you are taking creatine, simply tell your doctor before your blood test. They can use a different test (like Cystatin C) to get an accurate reading of your kidney health.
Myth #2: "It Will Make Me Bloated"
Many women avoid creatine because they fear water retention.
Here is the nuance: Creatine does cause water retention, but it's the good kind.
Creatine pulls water inside your muscle cells (intracellular hydration). This makes your muscles more resilient, helps them recover, and protects them from injury.
It does not cause subcutaneous water retention (the puffy look under your skin) unless you take massive doses.
The Solution: Avoid the "Loading Phase." Bodybuilders used to take 20 grams a day for a week. That causes bloating and stomach cramps. Just take 3-5 grams daily. You won't get bloated, but you will get the benefits.
Digestive Issues? Here is the Fix.
Some people report stomach cramping or diarrhea when they start creatine. This is almost always due to two errors:
- Undissolved Powder: If you drink gritty, sandy water, it irritates your gut. Make sure your creatine is micronized (like ours) and fully dissolved in warm water or a smoothie.
- Taking Too Much at Once: Again, stick to the 3-5g dose. Your gut can handle that easily.
The Safety Checklist for Seniors
If you are over 50 and considering creatine, here is your safety checklist:
- Check with your doctor if you have pre-existing kidney disease (this is the one true contraindication).
- Stay Hydrated. Creatine pulls water into muscles, so you need to drink enough water to keep the rest of your body happy.
- Choose "Monohydrate." It is the most studied form. Avoid fancy liquid creatines or "buffered" forms—they are often less effective and more expensive.
- Look for Purity. Ensure your supplement is tested for heavy metals and contaminants.