Creatine!

[pretty.batgirl]

I've recently purchased a pack of Phd: 2:1 Recovery and it lists Creatine as an ingredient. I'm a little reluctant to use it now...Do any of you ladies take supplements with Creatine? If so, are there any undesirable effects?

[medjen]

I just started taking creatine a few weeks ago. I haven't had any issues with it so far. There are a couple articles about it over on the supersite if you want to read more.

Some people get bloating like butterfly mentioned and some people get headaches. Depends on the person.

[dvsness]

I have been using creatine for years. There is no need to avoid it. My effects included strength gains and muscle. Not undesirable!

[pretty.batgirl]

The bloating is my main worry! I bloat really easily!

Originally Posted by dvsness

I have been using creatine for years. There is no need to avoid it. My effects included strength gains and muscle. Not undesirable!

Definitely not undesirable! Do you use it when you're trying to lose fat or when you're cutting too?

[dvsness]

Originally Posted by pretty.batgirl

The bloating is my main worry! I bloat really easily!

Then don't take more than you need (1g per 40 lbs) and drink adequate water (1 oz per lb) when using creatine. Bloating is typically a product of taking more than you can absorb.

Originally Posted by pretty.batgirl

Definitely not undesirable! Do you use it when you're trying to lose fat or when you're cutting too?

Yes. It is even better while cutting, imo, to help retain muscle while in caloric deficit. I always use it during contest prep!

I hope you don't plan on cutting at your current weight!

[pretty.batgirl]

Originally Posted by dvsness

I hope you don't plan on cutting at your current weight!

OMG, ofcourse not! haha. I just wanted to make a mental note for reference!

[iKoniConSciencE]

Yup, creatine is a good thing!

Before I decided to compete in BB, I was into powerlifting (as a hobby, not competitive) for a bit. At 125 pounds, I got my 1RM raw bench up to 130 with the help of creatine. It definitely helps makes you stronger.

I fully agree on "don't take more than you need" or if you do, limit your dosage to 5g/day. When I first tried creatine, I did the "loading" method of 20g/day every day for a week and uh... well... let's just say I felt like I had Montezuma's (sp?) Revenge

Creatine does cause your body to retain a tiny bit of water, BUT it's water in the muscle cells (instead of under your skin), SO it doesn't show as bloat unless you are using too much.

[schultzie_4]

I started taking kre-alkalyn about 2 weeks ago and really like it so far. I've seen good gains and no bloating. Check it out. http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/kre.html