Creatine, cognitive function and concussions: what do scientific studies show?

Creatine monohydrate has long been known primarily as a supplement that supports muscle strength and performance. However, in recent years, its possible effects on the brain - specifically on cognitive function and recovery from concussions - have also been increasingly discussed. What do scientific studies show so far?

Creatine and the brain: energy reserve

The brain is one of the most energy-intensive organs in the body. Like muscles, the brain uses the creatine-phosphocreatine system to replenish ATP, the main source of energy for cells.

Studies show that creatine supplementation can increase creatine concentrations in the brain:

• 9 out of 12 studies confirmed an increase in brain creatine after supplementation,

• Of the 16 studies focusing on cognition, 13 showed improvements in memory, information processing speed, or attention – especially under challenging conditions such as sleep deprivation or psychological stress .

Creatine and concussions

Concussions and mild traumatic injuries disrupt the brain's energy metabolism - reducing blood flow, oxygenation, and creatine stores.

Available evidence suggests that creatine supplementation may alleviate or promote recovery from:

• In animals, it led to approximately 50% less brain damage after injury.

• In humans under low oxygen conditions (mTBI model), supplementation increased brain creatine and attenuated cognitive decline.

• In children hospitalized with brain injuries, cognition, communication, self-care, and behavior improved after supplementation, while symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and fatigue were reduced.

• In athletes with long-term exposure to impacts (e.g., American football players), repeated concussions have been shown to be associated with reduced brain creatine levels in later life.

Conclusion

Scientific evidence shows that creatine can have positive effects not only on muscles but also on the brain. It supports cognitive function under demanding conditions and there is promising evidence for its role in concussion recovery.

Although more extensive studies are needed, the results so far suggest that creatine may be an important supplement in the area of ​​neuroprotection and healthy brain function – not only in athletes.