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Generally speaking, creatine seems to be safe, but there are some dangers of creatine. Some people might not react very well to taking higher doses, such as if they have an existing kidney problem or enzyme defect that makes digesting protein difficult.
Certain studies suggest that side effects of creatine may include:
- • Weight gain due to water retention (sometimes up to three to five pounds of weight gain in a day due to fluid accumulation if taking high doses)
- • Abdominal pain
- • Diarrhea
- • Nausea
- • Cramping
- • Constipation
- • Restlessness
Certain studies have looked at the supplement’s effect on the kidneys but not found much evidence that it will damage the kidneys of mostly healthy people without kidney disorders. The kidneys do have the job of metabolizing creatine and breaking it down so it can be eliminated from the body via urine, but in normal/moderate doses this does not seem to be dangerous for most people. However, if someone does have a kidney disorder or is being treated with diuretic medications in order to manage fluid levels in their body, he or she should discuss using it and similar supplements with a doctor before starting. *