Is Creatine a Brain Health Supplement?
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Never Skip Brain Day: You probably know creatine as the powder sitting next to protein shakes in the health aisle (we like this brand). But this famously well-researched fitness performance enhancer (light weight!) is now catching the attention of scientists for another reason. Early studies hint that creatine might also help keep our brains firing on all cylinders.
The Study: A 2025 review in the British Journal of Nutrition found that creatine may support thinking and memory in older adults. Some studies also suggest that creatine might improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression, but the research is not yet final. But not all scientists are convinced of the supplement’s amazing brain-boosting powers: a 2024 review led by University of Chichester professor Terry McMorris found that many creatine studies used inconsistent dosing and outdated cognitive testing methods, making results tough to compare.
The Takeaway: Overall, creatine appears to have a positive association with brain performance. But it doesn’t seem to be a magic bullet for supporting memory and focus, at least not yet.
Keep in Mind: Because creatine is often studied alongside exercise — which has well-proven benefits for brain health — it’s tricky to separate the two for science purposes. For now, the research is promising, but far from conclusive.
