Does Creatine cause kidney failure?

Creatine supplementation is generally considered safe and does not cause kidney failure in healthy individuals. Extensive research has shown that creatine does not adversely affect kidney function in most people.

1. Healthy Individuals: Numerous studies have indicated no adverse effects on renal function from creatine use. Dr. Darren Candow from the The Proof with Simon Hill stated that randomized clinical trials and long-term studies in postmenopausal females found no negative impact on kidney or liver function 1 .

2. Elevated Creatinine Levels: It's important to note that creatine intake leads to an increase in blood creatinine levels, a byproduct used to measure kidney function. This can result in a false positive for kidney problems. Therefore, it's crucial to inform healthcare providers about creatine supplementation when undergoing blood tests 1 2 .

3. Pre-existing Conditions: For individuals with pre-existing kidney or liver issues, medical clearance is advised before starting creatine. These individuals might be at a higher risk and should consult their doctor 1 3 .

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     2

     Creatine Safety Profile

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     3

     Creatine and Kidney Health

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     4

     Debunking Creatine Myths

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4. Long-term Studies: Long-term studies and meta-analyses have consistently indicated that creatine does not pose a risk to kidney health in healthy populations. Even in older adults, no adverse effects have been found over extended periods 4 2 .

In summary, for healthy individuals, creatine is considered safe and does not cause kidney failure. However, those with pre-existing kidney conditions should seek medical advice before beginning supplementation.