women and creatine

[icequeen]

I have read that creatine is less effective for women than for men. Is this true in anyone's experience? I am not sure that it is doing me enough good to warrant the money, but this is my first cycle. I used Phosphagen HP and shortly after I take it, my stomach gets puffy and my abs are GONE--is there a better product?

[Iron-T]

The 'puffiness' is due to creatine drawing water into the muscle cells . That is prefectly normal and tells you that the product is doing what it's supposed to. I know that feeling though..you feel bloated and 'fat'...same with me. Don't worry though, because as soon as you stop your cycle ( I take about 3 weeks, before I start on creatine again ) will return to normal. Make sure you drink plenty of water. Also you might be taking too much...try a smaller dose...5 grams post-workout should be sufficient for the daily maintance dose. Experiment what works for you . Everybody is different and responds different. Phosphagen is high in carbs and sugar...sometimes carbs bloat you too...maybe try just plain creatine and mix it in your post workout shake..
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Personally I like Betagen ( HMB + creatine ).

[icequeen]

Thank you. I have been doing A LOT of reading; I am very picky about what goes into my body and I am planning to try something else on my next cycle. I am pretty new to this and sometimes the information is so overwhelming and contradictory, but I have definitely found that what works is SO individual . . .it's kind of nice though--every girl likes to know her body is one of a kind -- haha! Thanks again!