Who Should Not Take Creatine? Safety Guide & Precautions

Introduction
What is Creatine and How Does it Work?
Individuals with Pre-Existing Kidney Disease
Children and Adolescents Under 18
Pregnant and Nursing Women
People Taking Specific Medications
People with Liver Disease
Those Susceptible to Digestive Distress
The Role of Purity and Third-Party Testing
Managing Expectations and Side Effects
How to Take Creatine Safely
Conclusion
FAQ

Introduction

Creatine is one of the most researched supplements in the world of fitness and wellness. You have likely seen it mentioned in locker rooms, fitness apps, or your local supplement aisle. While it is widely recognized for supporting muscle strength and recovery, many people still wonder if it is right for their specific health needs. Navigating the world of supplements can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to separate real science from gym-culture myths.

At BUBS Naturals, we prioritize transparency and clean ingredients because your health deserves more than just guesswork. We know that while most healthy adults can benefit from this supplement, there are specific groups who should exercise caution or avoid it altogether. This guide covers exactly who should skip the powder and why, helping you make an informed decision about your daily routine.

Our goal is to give you the facts without the fluff. Whether you are an athlete looking for an edge or someone simply trying to stay active as you age, understanding how creatine interacts with your body is essential. By the end of this article, you will know the groups that should stay away from creatine and how to use it safely if you are in the clear.

Quick Answer: While creatine is safe for most healthy adults, individuals with pre-existing kidney disease, children under 18, and pregnant or nursing women should generally avoid it. Always consult a healthcare provider if you take medications that affect kidney function, such as NSAIDs or diuretics.

What is Creatine and How Does it Work?

To understand who should stay away from creatine, we first need to look at what it actually is. Creatine is a naturally occurring compound made from three amino acids: arginine, glycine, and methionine. Your body produces it in the liver, kidneys, and pancreas, and you also get it from eating red meat and seafood.

Most of the creatine in your body—about 95%—is stored in your skeletal muscles as phosphocreatine. Phosphocreatine is a form of stored energy that helps your cells produce adenosine triphosphate, or ATP. Think of ATP as the "energy currency" of your cells. When you do something explosive, like a heavy lift or a sprint, your body burns through ATP quickly. Creatine helps replenish that energy source faster, allowing you to maintain intensity for a few seconds longer.

When you take a supplement like our Creatine Monohydrate, you are essentially "topping off" these internal stores. This may support better performance during high-intensity training and help with recovery between sets. However, because the kidneys are responsible for filtering the byproduct of creatine—known as creatinine—the state of your renal health is the most important factor in whether you should use it.

Individuals with Pre-Existing Kidney Disease

The most significant group of people who should not take creatine powder is those with chronic kidney disease or any history of kidney dysfunction. This is because the kidneys are the primary organs responsible for filtering waste from your blood. When you consume creatine, your body breaks it down into a waste product called creatinine.

In a healthy person, the kidneys filter creatinine without any issues. However, if your kidney function is already compromised, adding supplemental creatine may place unnecessary stress on these organs. While research suggests that creatine does not cause kidney damage in healthy people, it can certainly complicate things for those who already have a condition.

For additional background on creatine, creatinine, and renal safety, see this guide to creatine and kidney health.

Understanding Creatinine Levels

If you take creatine and then get a blood test, your doctor might notice elevated levels of creatinine. In a typical medical setting, high creatinine is often a marker for kidney stress. However, if you are supplementing, this "high" reading might just be a reflection of the extra creatine you are consuming rather than a sign of actual damage. Because this can mask or mimic real kidney issues, it is vital that anyone with a history of renal problems avoids the supplement unless specifically cleared by a specialist.

Key Takeaway: Creatine breaks down into a byproduct called creatinine. While healthy kidneys handle this easily, the extra workload may be risky for those with pre-existing kidney disease or impaired filtration.

Children and Adolescents Under 18

The use of creatine among high school athletes has increased significantly over the last decade. While many young athletes want to improve their performance on the field, most health experts and organizations recommend that children and adolescents under the age of 18 avoid creatine supplements.

The primary reason is a lack of long-term safety data. Most clinical trials on creatine have been conducted on adults aged 18 to 60. We simply do not have enough research to know how long-term creatine use affects a body that is still growing and developing. Hormonal shifts, bone growth, and organ development are all complex processes during the teenage years, and we believe it is better to prioritize a solid foundation of nutrition and training first.

Teenagers can usually see massive gains in strength and performance just by focusing on whole foods, adequate protein, and consistent sleep. Until more data is available on the pediatric population, it is best for young athletes to skip the supplement and focus on the basics of their craft.

Pregnant and Nursing Women

Pregnancy and nursing are periods where nutrition and supplementation require extreme care. Currently, there is very little research on the safety of creatine supplementation during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Because of this lack of evidence, most healthcare providers advise women to avoid it during these times.

During pregnancy, your body undergoes massive changes in fluid balance and kidney function. Since creatine can cause the body to hold more water in the muscle cells, it could potentially interfere with the delicate balance needed during gestation. Additionally, it is unknown if supplemental creatine crosses the placenta or is passed through breast milk in amounts that could affect a developing infant.

If you are pregnant or nursing and want to maintain your strength, we recommend focusing on a balanced diet rich in natural sources of creatine, like lean meats, and discussing any supplement use directly with your OB-GYN or midwife.

People Taking Specific Medications

Creatine can interact with certain medications, specifically those that impact your kidneys or fluid levels. If you are taking any of the following, you should speak with a doctor before starting a creatine regimen.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Common over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen and naproxen are filtered through the kidneys. Taking high doses of these NSAIDs alongside creatine could potentially increase the risk of kidney strain. If you frequently rely on these medications for joint pain or inflammation, you need to be cautious about adding creatine to the mix.

Diuretics and Dehydration Medications

Creatine changes how your body distributes water, pulling more fluid into the muscle cells. If you are taking diuretics (water pills) for blood pressure or other conditions, creatine might interfere with how those drugs work. This can lead to an increased risk of dehydration or an imbalance of electrolytes.

Nephrotoxic Drugs

Some prescription medications are known to be "nephrotoxic," meaning they can be hard on the kidneys. This includes certain antibiotics and immunosuppressants. If you are on a prescription that requires regular blood work to monitor your kidney function, you should likely avoid creatine powder to ensure your kidneys remain as healthy as possible.

People with Liver Disease

While the kidneys are the main concern with creatine, the liver also plays a role in its production. If you have severe liver disease or cirrhosis, your body’s ability to naturally produce and process amino acids may be impaired.

Most research indicates that creatine is safe for the liver in healthy individuals, but those with active liver conditions should be careful. There is not enough clinical evidence to guarantee that supplemental creatine won't cause additional stress to a struggling liver. If you have a history of liver issues, it is always best to prioritize medical guidance over supplement trends.

Myth: Creatine causes liver damage in healthy athletes. Fact: Multiple long-term studies have shown that creatine has no negative impact on liver enzymes or function in healthy adults when taken at recommended dosages.

Those Susceptible to Digestive Distress

For some, the issue with creatine isn't a major medical condition, but rather how their stomach reacts to it. A small percentage of people experience significant bloating, gas, or stomach cramps when taking creatine powder.

This often happens during a "loading phase," where a person takes 20 grams of creatine a day for a week. This high dose can be difficult for the digestive system to process all at once. If you find that even small doses of creatine cause you significant discomfort or diarrhea, you might be someone who should avoid it or switch to a different form.

However, many people find that skipping the loading phase and simply taking a standard 3 to 5-gram daily dose of our Creatine Monohydrate eliminates these issues. Our formula is designed to be pure and easy to mix, which often helps those with sensitive stomachs who have reacted poorly to lower-quality, gritty powders in the past.

The Role of Purity and Third-Party Testing

One reason people experience "side effects" from creatine is not the creatine itself, but contaminants found in low-quality products. The supplement industry is not regulated as strictly as pharmaceuticals, meaning some powders may contain heavy metals, fillers, or unlisted ingredients.

If you are an athlete who is drug-tested or someone who is generally concerned about what goes into your body, you should only use products that are third-party tested. At BUBS Naturals, our Creatine Monohydrate is NSF for Sport certified. This is a rigorous certification that ensures what is on the label is exactly what is in the bag, with no banned substances or harmful contaminants. For people who have had "bad reactions" to supplements in the past, switching to a certified clean product often makes all the difference.

Managing Expectations and Side Effects

If you are not in one of the "at-risk" groups mentioned above, you may still have concerns about side effects like weight gain or bloating. It is important to understand that creatine-related weight gain is almost entirely water weight stored inside the muscles. This is actually a good thing—it helps with protein synthesis and makes your muscles look fuller. It is not fat gain.

If you are worried about bloating, the best strategy is to stay hydrated. Because creatine pulls water into the muscles, you need to drink more water than usual to maintain your body’s overall fluid balance. We recommend pairing your creatine with a high-quality electrolyte like our Hydrate or Die formula to ensure your mineral levels stay balanced while your body adjusts.

For more guidance on hydration and electrolyte support, read what electrolyte water does for hydration.

Bottom line: Most side effects of creatine, like minor bloating or water retention, are temporary and can be managed with proper hydration and by avoiding high "loading" doses.

How to Take Creatine Safely

If you have consulted your doctor and confirmed that you are a good candidate for creatine, the next step is using it correctly. You do not need to do anything complicated to see the benefits.

Skip the Loading Phase: You do not need 20 grams a day. Taking 3 to 5 grams daily will saturate your muscles over the course of about three weeks without the digestive stress.
Consistency is Key: Creatine works through accumulation. You should take it every day, even on rest days, to keep your muscle stores full.
Mix it with Anything: High-quality creatine monohydrate should be tasteless and dissolve easily. You can stir it into your morning coffee, a post-workout shake, or even just a glass of water.
Listen to Your Body: If you feel unusual fatigue, cramping, or persistent stomach issues, stop and re-evaluate. Every body is different, and while the science is strong, your personal experience is the ultimate guide.

We believe in keeping things simple. Our Creatine Monohydrate is a single-ingredient formula—no additives, no flavoring, just pure creatine that mixes clean into any drink. This "no BS" approach is at the heart of everything we do.

Conclusion

Creatine is a powerhouse for supporting strength, cognitive function, and recovery, but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you have kidney issues, are under 18, or are navigating pregnancy, it is best to leave this supplement out of your routine for now. For everyone else, it remains one of the most effective and safest tools in the wellness shed.

At BUBS Naturals, we are committed to providing products that back up your active lifestyle with integrity. We were founded to honor the legacy of Glen "BUB" Doherty, a Navy SEAL who lived a life of adventure and purpose. In his honor, we donate 10% of all our profits to veteran-focused charities, ensuring that your journey toward health also helps others.

If you are ready to support your training with a clean, NSF for Sport certified supplement, our Creatine Monohydrate is ready for you. Take it consistently, stay hydrated, and keep pushing toward your goals.

Prioritize Safety: Consult a doctor if you have a history of kidney or liver issues.
Choose Purity: Look for third-party certifications like NSF for Sport.
Stay Consistent: A daily 5g dose is more effective than inconsistent high doses.
Hydrate: Increase your water intake to support muscle cell hydration.

Ready to see the difference for yourself? Explore our Boosts collection and join a community dedicated to doing good and feeling great.

FAQ

Does creatine cause hair loss in men?

There is currently no strong scientific evidence that creatine causes hair loss. This myth stems from a single study in 2009 that showed an increase in DHT (a hormone linked to hair loss) in rugby players, but the study did not actually measure hair loss itself, and the results have not been replicated in dozens of subsequent studies. For most men, creatine use does not appear to impact hair density or growth.

Can I take creatine if I am trying to lose weight?

Yes, you can take creatine while losing weight, as it helps preserve lean muscle mass during a calorie deficit. While you may see the scale stay the same or go up slightly due to increased water retention in the muscles, this is not fat gain. Keeping your muscle mass high is essential for maintaining a healthy metabolism while you drop body fat.

Is creatine monohydrate better than other types like HCL?

While many forms of creatine exist, such as Creatine HCL or Buffered Creatine, Creatine Monohydrate remains the gold standard. It is the most researched, most cost-effective, and most widely proven form available. Other forms often claim better absorption, but there is little evidence that they provide superior results in terms of strength or muscle growth compared to pure monohydrate.

Can I take creatine and caffeine together?

For a long time, there was a theory that caffeine might "cancel out" the effects of creatine, but modern research has largely debunked this. Many people successfully take their creatine in their morning coffee or as part of a pre-workout blend containing caffeine. As long as you stay properly hydrated, there is no reason you cannot enjoy both as part of your daily routine.

Who Should Not Take Creatine Powder?

Table of Contents

Introduction

What is Creatine and How Does it Work?