This Muscle Supplement May Help Your Brain

Brain Gains: Creatine is a popular supplement for people trying to build more muscle, but new research suggests it might also have some benefits for mental health. A recent systematic review looked at randomized controlled trials and found creatine may be able to help with major depressive disorder (MDD) when taken alongside prescribed depression treatments. 

The Study: Researchers analyzed data from five randomized controlled trials with 238 participants from the United States, South Korea, India, Brazil, and Israel who received either creatine monohydrate or a placebo. Most were women, and the average age was 36. Four trials focused on people with MDD, and one looked at people with bipolar disorder with depressive episodes. 

The Takeaway: Two of the trials found participants who took creatine in addition to either the antidepressant escitalopram (Lexapro) or with cognitive behavior therapy had significant symptom reductions compared to a placebo. The other three studies found no benefit from taking creatine. Previous research indicates creatine can increase cellular energy production in the brain and may also influence mood-regulating neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin.

Keep in Mind: Only five trials were included — with mixed results. More research is needed before saying creatine could work as a reliable depression treatment.