Creatine is widely used by athletes in Spain to boost muscle mass and performance. However, medical supervision is essential, and not all groups can safely take it. Experts warn of specific health risks and contraindications.
Creatine supplements have become increasingly common in Spanish gyms, with many athletes turning to them to enhance muscle growth and improve performance. Yet, the growing popularity of creatine is not limited to professional sports. People with low natural creatine levels, such as those following vegetarian or vegan diets, and individuals undergoing rehabilitation after injuries, are also among those who may benefit from its use. Despite its widespread adoption, medical professionals in Spain consistently stress the importance of using creatine only under proper supervision.
Creatine is a naturally occurring compound made up of three amino acids, found in both muscles and the brain. While it can be sourced from foods like seafood and red meat, dietary intake is typically much lower than the amounts provided by supplements. The body also produces creatine in the liver, pancreas, and kidneys, storing it in muscles for energy. This energy boost is a key reason why athletes, including high-profile figures such as Djokovic during the ATP Cincinnati final, rely on creatine to support demanding physical activity.
However, creatine's applications extend beyond sports. According to information from Clínica Mayo, it is also used in the treatment of certain neurological disorders, neuromuscular conditions, and heart failure. Some research suggests potential benefits in preventing degenerative brain diseases, including Alzheimer’s, though these uses require further study and always demand medical oversight.
Despite its benefits, creatine is not suitable for everyone. Spanish nutritionists, including Pablo Ojeda, highlight that creatine is one of the most extensively studied supplements, but emphasize that it should not be taken without consulting a healthcare provider. The risk of adverse interactions with other medications or health conditions is significant, especially in cases of excessive intake or when combined with other supplements, such as fat-soluble vitamins.
There are clear contraindications for creatine use. Mónica Herrero, vice president of the Colegio Profesional de Dietistas-Nutricionistas de Aragón, points out that creatine is not recommended for individuals with kidney or liver diseases. The Science Media Centre España also advises against its use in people whose physical activity does not reach competitive levels, as well as during pregnancy and breastfeeding, due to insufficient safety data.
In Spain, the regulation of dietary supplements, including creatine, falls under the Ministry of Health. Products must comply with European Union standards, and unauthorized health claims are prohibited. While creatine is legal and widely available in pharmacies and specialized stores, the Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN) regularly issues guidance on safe use and potential risks. Consumers are urged to check product labeling and consult healthcare professionals before starting any supplement regimen.
Spain’s approach reflects a broader European trend of caution regarding sports supplements. The emphasis remains on balanced nutrition and individualized medical advice. For those considering creatine, understanding both its potential benefits and its limitations is essential. The current consensus among Spanish health authorities is clear: creatine can be effective for certain groups, but its use must always be tailored to individual health profiles and monitored by qualified professionals.
