Like most gymgoers, creatine is my barrier-breaking buddy, enhancing my body’s endurance, muscle growth, power, and overall performance. However, one question is eating my head continuously for days – does creatine affect sexually?
The link between creatine supplements and sexual drive is not conclusive. Studies show that while creatine may not boost testosterone levels, it can increase the production of dihydrotestosterone, a powerful sex hormone derived from testosterone. But this increase is negligible, impacting very little.
Also, recent studies suggest that creatine can improve sperm motility and quantity.
But there’s more to the story of creatine and sexuality. Let’s dive deeper into it.
Creatine and Sexual Functioning: Myths and Facts
While some scientific evidence suggests that creatine supplementation may affect sexual function, the research in this area is inconclusive. Anecdotal reports are mixed, with some suggesting negative effects on sexual function and others indicating possible improvements in sexual performance and sperm quality.
Although the creatine-sexual function relationship is still being studied, I have analyzed the latest research to determine the potential impact of creatine on your sex life.
Does Creatine Affect Testosterone Levels?
Creatine is not directly linked to increased testosterone production. Studies have shown that it may positively impact testosterone levels indirectly.
Find out more about the connection between creatine and testosterone levels.
Testosterone is a crucial sex hormone that regulates various functions in the body of men. It controls sex drive, bone mass, fat distribution, muscle mass and strength, and the production of red blood cells and sperm.
As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline by about 1% each year, starting from 30. Low testosterone level is now linked to low libido and poor sexual performance.
Researchers found a significant increase in testosterone among amateur swimmers after workouts and taking creatine. Similarly, active men experienced increased testosterone and decreased cortisol levels, a stress hormone that negatively affects testosterone production, after intense workouts.
In this research, 20 physically active males were randomly selected and divided into two groups: the creatine group (Cr) and the placebo group (Pl). Both groups underwent resistance training. The participants in the creatine group showed notable improvements in testosterone levels and reduced cortisol levels compared to the placebo group.
However, short-term Creatine supplementation does not alter the responses of growth hormones such as testosterone and cortisol. Check out more on creatine and hormonal balance.
Individuals with pre-existing hormonal imbalances may have a negative effect of Creatine on testosterone levels. However, standard recommended dosages might not negatively affect testosterone levels.
Do changes in the hormone for creatine cause male boobs – why don’t you explore yourself.
Does Creatine Affect Erectile Function?
There is limited scientific evidence of Creatine’s adverse effects on erectile function. But it might positively impact erectile function by improving overall physical fitness and muscle strength.
Creatine improves endurance, strength, and physical performance. However, long-term Creatine use, be it liquid or oral, can overload detoxification systems in the body.
This leads to fewer enzymes for hormone synthesis and potential erectile dysfunction. That is because slower or lower production of hormones makes the brain struggle to send the correct signals needed to produce an erection. Thus a lessened libido and lack of hormones lead to an ED.
Do you know dehydration can lead to ED?
Studies suggest hydration levels can impact your sexual function; however, more research is needed.
Now, creatine causes water retention, and you may encounter dehydration if you don’t take enough water. When dehydrated, your body produces more of the enzyme angiotensin I, which causes blood vessels to narrow, providing low blood cells, plasma, and oxygen. Low blood volume and insufficient oxygen can lead to ED.
Besides, your body makes angiotensin II from angiotensin I, which has been associated with sexual dysfunction.
Does Creatine Affect Sexually: Your Libido?
Some evidence suggests that Creatine can positively affect libido by increasing testosterone levels. However, there are reports of decreased libido while taking Creatine supplements.
Creatine can cause dehydration and fatigue, which may indirectly impact libido while taking Creatine. Dehydration can lead to lethargy which can lower libido. Some people report insomnia, irritability, and tiredness. All this has negative effects on sex drive.
Does creatine impact the size of your penis – check out.
Does Creatine Affect Your Sperm?
Studies suggest that creatine can have both beneficial and detrimental impacts on sperm.
On the one hand, creatine can increase the amount of ATP (energy molecule) in sperm and improve their motility, which is essential for fertilization. Creatine can also enhance the duration of sperm capacitation. It is a process that prepares sperm for penetrating the egg.
On the other hand, creatine can also increase the activity of creatine kinase (CK). It’s an enzyme that breaks down creatine. High CK activity in the seminal fluid may indicate poor sperm quality and damage to sperm membranes.
Therefore, creatine may have a dual role in sperm function, depending on the dose and duration of supplementation. More research is needed to determine the optimal level of creatine for sperm health and fertility.
FAQs
Can you take creatine and Viagra?
Viagra is a medication commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction, and there are no known interactions between Creatine and Viagra. But consult with your doctor before taking any new medications or supplements.
Can I take creatine every day?
Doses of up to 25 grams daily for up to 14 days have been safely used. Lower doses of up to 4-5 grams daily for up to 18 months have also been safely used. Creatine is safe when taken long-term. Doses up to 10 grams daily for up to 5 years have been safely used.
Does Creatine Make Your Penis Bigger?
Creatine boosts muscle phosphocreatine for intense exercises. It’s popular but won’t increase penis size. A healthier diet and exercise can improve size. Creatine ethyl ester has better absorption.
Conclusion
A healthy diet, proper exercise, and maintaining body weight and fat level are important for a healthy sex life. Creatine is a supplement that will increase your performance and keep you fit.
However, you must understand that creatine alone can’t boost your testosterone or sexual function; you can achieve it with exercise.
For more on creatine, visit our blogs.
I am a health and wellness enthusiast working in a Pittsburgh-based wellness clinic. My primary role as a consultant is to tailor a balanced lifestyle for my patients, where positive steps and potent supplements play a synergistic role.