Creatine Use on Rise in Kids Under 18

NEW YORK--According to a survey conducted in suburban New York, creatine use is on the rise in students 12 years and older. The survey, presented in mid-May at the combined meeting of the Pediatric Academic Societies and the American Academy of Pediatrics, consisted of more than 1,100 students filling out a questionnaire. Sixty-two students admitted to using creatine, with 44 percent of twelfth graders making up the bulk of users. This is consistent with reports that the supplement's popularity increases in proportion to age.

Dr. Jordan Metzl, who presented the study, found that creatine can cause water retention and cramping and that there were at least two known cases of kidney failure in kids taking the supplement. However, it has been questioned how creatine can both retain water and cause muscle cramps--an effect associated with dehydration. "These assumptions have been garnered by the popular press," said Conrad Earnest, vice president of human sciences at ImagiNutrition. "[These researchers] are trying to argue science with testimonials."

Based on responses from the survey, students felt that taking the supplement would improve athletic performance. Earnest believes that any adverse effects linked to creatine may be caused by taking more than the recommended five grams per day, as well as a lack of communication between parents, coaches and children. For additional information, contact Metzl at (212) 606-1005 or Earnest at (972) 385-0526.