Studies on creatine show: The performance booster could now also be a longevity supplement

Creatine, long known as a sports supplement for strength and competitive athletes, now fascinates a much wider audience. Beyond weightlifting or bodybuilding, more and more studies are shedding light on the role of creatine in mental performance, maintaining muscle mass and even as part of a sustainable health strategy.

In this article, you will find out what the molecule creatine actually is, why it can also be described as an “energy store for the brain and muscles” and what scientific findings are available to date. We also shed light on the importance of sustainable production – a topic that is becoming increasingly important for many modern consumers. And last but not least, we would also like to introduce you to the new powder combination called FocusMind Pro©. An extremely clever and unique combination that contains the next generation of creatine – namely Creavitalis® Creatine. Additionally refined with niacin and selenium, the formulation in FocusMind Pro© has been specially developed for mental performance and longevity. Curious? Then read on now!

Let’s start with a look behind the scenes at the Creavitalis® creatine manufacturer Alzchem:

The Alzchem Group, based in Trostberg, Bavaria, is one of the leading specialty chemicals companies in Germany. The company has been producing high-quality, sustainable and innovative products for over 100 years. Alzchem relies on strict quality controls, certifications, resource-conserving processes and energy-efficient procedures – and has been awarded EcoVadis Platinum status.

Creavitalis® is a high-purity creatine monohydrate from Alzchem. It is produced under strict GMP conditions in Germany, is FSSC 22000 certified and is used for research purposes at universities worldwide. Creavitalis® has thus established itself as the reference raw material for creatine-related studies.

In the following interview, Andreas Rothbucher, Sales Manager Central Europe at the Alzchem Group, answers important questions on topics such as quality, sustainability and the many benefits of creatine – from its classic use in sport to general health promotion and longevity.

Interview with Andreas Rothbucher, Sales Manager Central Europe, Alzchem Group

Creavitalis® is a branded raw material with a unique selling point. What makes your creatine special compared to other products on the market?

Creavitalis® is characterized by its high purity and quality. It is produced exclusively in Germany and meets the highest standards. It is also vegan, kosher and halal certified. Thanks to its fine grinding, Creavitalis® is texture-neutral and pleasant to take. Creavitalis® is the raw material for scientific studies and therefore the reference product for their results.

Quality and purity are decisive criteria for food supplements. How do you ensure that Creavitalis® meets the highest standards?

We ensure that Creavitalis® meets the highest standards by carrying out strict quality controls and tests. Each batch is meticulously analyzed, ensuring consistent quality. Alzchem’s production processes are certified and have been tried and tested for over 30 years. In addition, the entire production chain, including the raw materials, is in the hands of Alzchem, thus ensuring the purity of the end product.

Alzchem is considered a pioneer in sustainable production. What specific steps do you take to ensure that your creatine is produced in an environmentally friendly way?

Our climate roadmap towards “Net Zero” is based on the following four principles:

1. We want to close our production cycles more efficiently,
2. reduce the amount of energy required,
3. utilize the waste heat generated in our production processes more intensively and
4. avoid any form of waste of resources

What makes Alzchem so innovative and future-oriented as a company?

We continuously invest in research and development and work closely with scientific institutions, constantly developing new products and applications for creatine.

Creatine is popular with athletes – but it also offers benefits in everyday life. What role does creatine play in general health promotion and specifically in the area of longevity?

Creatine in the form of creatine phosphate is the key to the cellular energy cycle. It ensures the energy supply to the cells and is therefore indispensable for longevity concepts. Building on this, creatine supports all energy-intensive bodily functions. Interest in creatine is increasing massively, particularly in the area of women’s health and cognitive performance.

Where is the journey going? What visions do you have for future creatine production and the use of Creavitalis® in various areas of life?

Our vision is to establish Creavitalis® in even more areas of life and to make the many benefits of creatine better known. Extensive studies with universities around the world are highlighting further topics. In addition to women’s health, we are also conducting very promising research into fatigue and balanced nutrition.

With so many creatine suppliers to choose from, why should customers opt for Creavitalis®?

We produce creatine in a special facility in Germany, use safe manufacturing processes and adhere to strict standards such as GMP and HACCP. Customers should choose Creavitalis® because it meets the highest quality standards. The German consumer advice center also recommends buying only products with the Creavitalis® or Creapure® seal.

Your production process is considered special. What technological or ecological differences are there compared to other producers?

Our manufacturing process is characterized by the use of state-of-the-art technologies and environmentally friendly production methods. We make sure that our processes are energy-efficient and resource-saving. Alzchem is also the only manufacturer of creatine in the western world.

Creavitalis® is produced exclusively in Germany. Why did you deliberately choose this location?

Alzchem was founded around 120 years ago. The primary reason for the choice of location was the large water power of the neighboring river “Alz”. This provided a reliable source of energy for production at the time, so Alzchem’s original idea was already a sustainable one. Our creatine is produced exclusively in our certified facilities in Upper Bavaria – fair, sustainable, regional.

Your products are certified. What certifications do you have and what do they mean for consumers?

Our products are kosher and halal certified. For consumers, these certifications mean that they are receiving a product of the highest purity and quality that has been manufactured under strict controls.

Creavitalis® is considered to be particularly bioavailable. What makes the absorption of your creatine more effective than with other products?

Creavitalis® is creatine monohydrate, which has a bioavailability of almost 100 %. This is achieved by the special purity and quality of the product. It also enables more effective absorption and utilization of creatine in the body.

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important. What makes Creavitalis® more sustainable than creatine products from other manufacturers?

Creavitalis® is produced under sustainable conditions. We rely on energy-efficient technologies and environmentally friendly production methods to minimize our environmental impact. Alzchem was awarded the EcoVadis Platinum rating for sustainable corporate governance in 2024, placing it in the top 1 percent of companies assessed.

Alzchem works closely with research. What projects or innovative studies on creatine are you currently working on?

Alzchem supports and conducts numerous studies to further research the many benefits of creatine. Studies are currently underway on the topics of sarcopenia, long Covid, cognitive functions, women’s health, longevity and many more.

In your opinion, which clinical studies or research results are particularly relevant for consumers?

The studies in the field of women’s health are particularly relevant. There are many new findings here. We will also be able to present groundbreaking results in the applications for healthy ageing this year. We are also very confident about our Fatigue / Long Covid study, which will be completed this year.

Creatine is often the subject of new research. Are there any interesting scientific developments that could surprise us?

What is particularly surprising is how many areas creatine is useful in and where supplementation brings great benefits. New approaches are constantly being found, such as creatine for depression or Parkinson’s disease. Research here is tireless. In the end, however, this is explained quite simply, because the basic function of creatine is to support energy metabolism. Creatine therefore provides the body with energy – wherever and whenever it is needed.

Finally, what would be your most important piece of advice for people considering creatine not only for sport but also to promote their general health?

My most important piece of advice would be to see creatine as part of a holistic approach. Creatine supports the body’s energy metabolism and therefore has a wide range of effects. Creatine is therefore suitable for anyone who wants to go through life full of energy.

Creatine: A versatile molecule for muscles, brain and general health

What is creatine and why is it so important?

The term “creatine” is derived from the Greek word “kreas” for “meat”. Our main intake typically comes from meat and fish, while plant-based foods contain almost no creatine. An average adult synthesizes about 1-2 grams of creatine daily, especially in the liver, kidneys and pancreas. We take in further amounts through our diet.

In the body, creatine – mainly stored as phosphocreatine – serves as a rapidly available source of energy. During high-intensity, short-term exercise, it regenerates the cells’ main source of energy, adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This function makes creatine a popular supplement for strength training and jump sports. However, it also offers much more than just an increase in performance during sport.

Benefits of creatine in sport and everyday life

1. Short-term energy production:
   Creatine primarily supports high-intensity and short-term exertion where maximum strength or speed is required, e.g. weightlifting or sprinting. It improves the ability to regenerate ATP more quickly.
2. Increasing anaerobic capacity:
   Creatine can noticeably improve performance, especially during anaerobic activities such as sprints or strength training. Not only professional athletes benefit from it, but also anyone who wants to optimize their muscle strength or fitness.
3. More power in everyday life:
   Another advantage: those who regularly do strength training can often do more repetitions or move heavier weights with creatine. Studies show that strength training in combination with creatine supplementation leads to significantly greater muscle strength gains than training without creatine.

For people who do not exercise at all or only moderately, creatine can play an important role in muscle maintenance. Especially in old age or in physically demanding occupations, it supports the substance of the muscles. In addition, the positive effects on the energy metabolism of the brain are an increasingly sought-after area.

Creatine for brain performance and cognitive functions

Numerous studies have shown that creatine can boost not only physical but also mental performance. In a placebo-controlled cross-over study of 45 vegetarian young adults (5 g creatine per day for six weeks), significant improvements in working memory and intelligence test scores were shown. People with a lower dietary creatine intake (e.g. vegetarians) in particular appear to benefit from this.

There is also evidence that creatine can have a positive effect on short-term memory and mental clarity. However, the effects can vary depending on the individual’s condition – factors such as sleep, stress levels or general diet also play a role.

Medical applications and longevity potential

Creatine is now also established in the medical field:

• Neurological diseases: Studies suggest that creatine could be supportive in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
• Heart health: Creatine helps to improve the energy supply to heart muscle cells, which may be of particular interest to people with heart failure.
• Muscle and nerve diseases: In muscular dystrophies or ALS, creatine helps to improve muscle strength.
• Rehabilitation: Creatine is used in rehabilitation programs after strokes or brain injuries to support the energy balance of damaged tissue.

The role of creatine in old age is particularly relevant for long-term quality of life. By strengthening the muscles and brain, creatine contributes to longevity. It can help to counteract age-related muscle atrophy (sarcopenia), has an antioxidant effect and supports cognitive functions. Many longevity experts therefore refer to creatine as a building block within a comprehensive anti-ageing strategy – especially if it is embedded in a healthy diet and targeted exercise.

Sustainable creatine production: why it is important

One aspect that is often neglected when buying creatine is sustainability. Cheap creatine, often from Asia, is sometimes produced in environmentally harmful processes. This leads to high levels of waste and pollution. This contrasts with the sustainable production methods of the Alzchem Group in Germany, which are characterized by energy-efficient processes and low emissions.

If you are not only concerned about quality, but also about the environment, you should look out for sustainable manufacturers when buying creatine.

• Tip: Look out for certificates and seals that prove a tested, resource-conserving production method.

Common myths about creatine: What is really true?

1. “Creatine damages the kidneys“
   Studies have shown no negative effects on kidney values in healthy people, even with long-term creatine intake. However, if you have pre-existing kidney problems, you should always seek medical advice.
2. “Creatine is only for men“
   In fact, women can also benefit from creatine, for example in terms of muscle maintenance, training performance or to support cognitive functions.
3. “Creatine is a steroid“
   Creatine is a naturally occurring molecule that has nothing to do with anabolic steroids. It is legally available and is one of the best-studied dietary supplements available.

Conclusion: Creatine as a sustainable all-rounder for more performance, health and longevity

Creatine is far more than just a performance-enhancing supplement for ambitious athletes. Whether to support muscles, the brain or general health goals – numerous studies underpin the versatile potential of this molecule. It helps to increase strength and endurance, has a positive effect on certain neurological and cognitive functions and can have a positive influence on the ageing process.

At the same time, sustainability is an increasingly important issue when choosing the right creatine product. If you want to be on the safe side when it comes to ecology, quality and purity, you should make sure that the creatine is produced under environmentally friendly conditions and using certified processes. The Alzchem Group has taken on a pioneering role here with Creavitalis®.

New product: FocusMind Pro© from neotes

A unique combination of Creavitalis® creatine, niacin (vitamin B3) and selenium.

• Creatine supports the energy supply of muscles and brain,
• Niacin helps to reduce tiredness and promotes energy metabolism,
• Selenium protects your cells through its antioxidant properties.

With FocusMind Pro©, neotes relies on the high-quality Creavitalis® creatine from the Alzchem Group, which is manufactured in Germany. The aim was to offer a product that can be integrated as seamlessly as possible into a modern, health-conscious lifestyle. Although longevity and biohacking are currently trending topics, it should nevertheless always be remembered that no supplement can replace a healthy diet or a balanced lifestyle on its own. However, creatine – in combination with niacin and selenium – offers an interesting approach to specifically support energy processes in the body without focusing exclusively on peak athletic performance.

Sources:

• Konstantinos Avgerinos, Nikolaos Spyrou, Konstantinos Bougioukas b, Dimitrios Kapogiannis – Effects of creatine supplementation on cognitive function of healthy individuals: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Exp Gerontol. 2018 .
• Richard B Kreider, Douglas S Kalman, Jose Antonio, Tim N Ziegenfuss – International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2017 .
• Ziyu Wang, Bopeng Qiu, Ruoling Li, Yunzhi Han, Carl Petersen, Shuting Liu, Yinkai Zhang – Effects of Creatine Supplementation and Resistance Training on Muscle Strength Gains in Adults <50 Years of Age: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Training and Nutrition for Performance. 2024 .
• Darren G Candow, Philip D Chilibeck – Timing of creatine or protein supplementation and resistance training in the elderly. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2008 .
• Caroline Rae, Alison L Digney, Sally R McEwan, Timothy C Bates – Oral creatine monohydrate supplementation improves brain performance: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial. Proc Biol Sci. 2003 .
• Theo Wallimann – Positive effect of creatine in old age and for rehabilitation. “Musculature and old age”. Commentary. 2011 .
• T Klopstock, M Elstner, A Bender – Creatine in mouse models of neurodegeneration and aging. Amino Acids. 2011 .
• Eric S Rawson, Andrew C Venezia – Use of creatine in the elderly and evidence for effects on cognitive function in young and old. Amino Acids. 2011 .
• I. Avgerinos, Nikolaos Spyrou, Konstantinos I. Bougioukas, Dimitrios Kapogiannis -Effects of creatine supplementation on cognitive function of healthy individuals: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. 2018 .
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