Does Creatine Cause Headaches?

FluxFactory/Getty ImaFrom energy boosters to performance enhancers, the world of sports and fitness is no stranger to supplements. For many athletes and gym-goers, creatine is one of the more popular supplements on the market for improving performancAlthough side effects from creatine are relatively uncommon, some people have reported experiencing headaches from creatine supplementIn this article, we’ll explore what creatine does, some potential side effects of creatine supplementation, and what the research says about creatine causing headaches.

Does creatine cause headacheCreatine is a naturally occurring substance made of amino acids. It supplies the body with cellular energy. Red meat and seafood are the primary sources of dietary creatine, while endogenous creatine is synthesized in the liver, kidneys, and pancreasMost creatine is stored in and used by the muscles, which makes it a popular supplement for fitness-related activities. As with almost all supplements, there have been reported side effects associated with taking larger amounts of creatine.

While these side effects are generally gastrointestinal in nature, some people have also reported experiencing creatine headachesFortunately, as far as supplements are concerned, researchTrusted Source has shown that creatine is one of the safest supplements that the average person can take. Outside of anecdotal reports, there’s virtually no research that suggests headaches are a direct side effect of creatine usIn fact, the research on the reported side effects demonstrates quite the opposite, as we’ll discuss later in the article.

Here are a few possible explanations for headaches that might accompany creatine use, especially in active individualsDehydratDehydration is one of the most common causes of headaches. People who supplement with creatine are more likely to be involved with sports or fitness. These types of physical activities can lead to dehydration, especially if you’re not drinking enough water during your training sessioTensiTension is another common cause of headaches. Certain physical activities, such as those that focus on building endurance, may cause an increase in muscle tension. When this muscle tension is in the neck or shoulders, it can cause a specific type of headache called a tension headache.

OverexertOverexertion is another potential cause of headaches. Whether you’re just getting back into fitness or have been training for years, overexertion can occur when you push your body too hard during physical activitThis risk may be higher during endurance or weight training activities, where overexertion is more commoOverheatiOverheating can cause a handful of unpleasant symptoms, including headaches. Athletes are most at risk for overheating when they train or play sports in high temperatures, but anyone who engages in activities in the heat is at risk for overheatinSymptoms of overheating can also be compounded by both dehydration and overexertion.