What if creatine was not just for bulking up muscles? A fitness coach shares how this supplement changed her mental game—and it’s not what you might expect.
When we hear the term “creatine,” we automatically think of weightlifting, mass gain, and intense fitness regimes. However, for American coach Sami Clarke, founder of the wellness platform Form, this dietary supplement had a radical and unexpected effect… on her mind. In a testimony published in Glamour US, she relayed her experience of trying creatine for two months with a completely different goal: enhancing her cognitive and mental performance. What were the results? More mental clarity, improved focus, and less brain fog—essentially, a sharper brain than ever.
A Supplement Long Reserved for the Gym
For many years, creatine was confined to the bodybuilding aisles. Naturally produced by the body, it plays a key role in energy production, particularly in the muscles. However, recent scientific studies have begun to explore its effects on brain function, especially among women, vegetarians, and those subjected to high cognitive stress.
Sami Clarke’s interest in creatine was sparked by a conversation with her nutritionist, who explained how creatine could enhance working memory, concentration, and even mood. Intrigued, she embarked on a regimen of 5 grams per day, mixing the powder into her morning coffee or smoothie. By the second week, she noticed a transformation: less mental fatigue, increased energy throughout the day, and an improved capacity to focus on tasks without easily losing concentration. She emphasized that she experienced no side effects nor any visible physical changes. However, mentally, she said, “it changed everything.”
A Serious Avenue for Women’s Cognitive Health
Recent research tends to confirm her experiences. Creatine appears to be particularly beneficial for individuals who consume little meat, as their natural stores are often lower. It may also alleviate symptoms related to chronic stress, anxiety, and even certain phases of the menstrual cycle when mental energy tends to drop.
Dr. Natalie Dattilo, a clinical psychologist interviewed by Glamour, explained that the brain is a very energy-demanding organ. Since creatine improves access to ATP (cellular energy), it could tangibly support brain functions. It is essential to note that this is not a miracle supplement. Sami Clarke still prioritizes sleep, healthy eating, and regular exercise. Yet, for her, creatine has become a simple and effective tool in her wellness toolbox. “It’s as if my brain switched to high definition,” she concludes. And honestly, who wouldn’t want a little mental boost that’s natural and crash-free at the end of the day?