Can consuming creatine monohydrate cause elevated heart enzyme levels?

There have been several studies focusing on the possible adverse effects of creatine use and the heart, kidney, or liver function in healthy individuals. These studies have yet to prove that creatine negatively affects the proper function of one’s body.

Nothing has shown that creatine monohydrate causes elevated heart enzyme levels.

Before taking any new supplement, though, it’s important to contact your healthcare professional. You need to make sure it doesn’t conflict with any medication you may be on or any medical condition you may have.

Elevated heart enzymes are mostly known to be associated with heart attacks. 

In the aftermath of a heart attack, the muscles of the heart die or become damaged. This is due to the loss of blood flow and results in the destruction of cells in the muscle. The contents of the heart muscles’ cells spill out into the body’s bloodstream.

The contents of these cells include creatine kinase, which is tested for in order to diagnose a heart attack.

Doctors test for elevated cardiac enzymes and also by reviewing symptoms relating to heart attacks. A diagnosis of the two can determine whether or not the heart is the root cause of the symptoms, in which case doctors can limit potential further damage to the organ.

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What Does Cause Elevated Heart Enzyme Levels?

The rapid elevation of blood pressure, also known as malignant hypertension, can result in elevated cardiac enzyme levels. This occurs when significant kidney damage is taking place and the muscles of the heart are affected due to extra strain.

As with a heart attack, the muscles become damaged or die resulting in the release of cell content into the bloodstream.

Another cause of elevated cardiac enzymes has been seen in patients with significant kidney or renal disease. There is a direct correlation between patients suffering from kidney disease and coronary artery disease.

Studies show that kidney disease can result in damage to the heart muscle. Even without signs of heart damage, patients with kidney problems still show elevated heart enzyme levels.

Another illness that can lead to elevated heart enzymes is polymyositis. This disorder causes inflamed muscles throughout one’s body. The condition is thought to be triggered by viral infections that result in damages to the muscles in the body.

Polymyositis causes progressive weakness that begins in the abdomen and lower body, causing tenderness in the muscles and joints. It may also affect the heart which in turn causes elevated cardiac enzymes to be released into the blood.

Does Consuming Creatine Monohydrate Indirectly Cause Elevated Heart Enzyme Levels?

While research has shown creatine monohydrate to be effective and safe when taken in the correct dosage, there have been cases of people who react badly to creatine in the form of allergic reactions. A rash or even shortness of breath is the result of this kind of allergic reaction.

However, those who abuse the dosage of creatine monohydrate can cause indirect problems for themselves. Some side effects that can occur by the overuse of creatine are muscle damage, dehydration, weight gain, and gastrointestinal problems.

Some users of creatine have reported other side effects. These have ranged from mild headaches to serious medical conditions, which are mostly complications of existing medical conditions and electrolyte imbalances.

If you have any underlying conditions, creatine can indirectly affect them in negative ways, especially when not used properly.

But there is no reason why creatine — when used properly and independent of extenuating medical conditions — should cause elevated heart enzyme levels. Here is what creatine does in your body:

If I Get the Green Light From Your Doctor, How Should I Use Creatine?

The powder form of creatine monohydrate has been proven to be the most effective. The liquid form of creatine is unstable and breaks down easily in the bloodstream. 100% pure creatine powder is the way to go.

For those who want fast results, use a liquid carbohydrate supplement to mix with the powder. These usually include electrolytes and other ingredients to not only help with the uptake of creatine but to help with muscle recovery as well.

For those who want to save money, mixing the powder with fruit juice is also acceptable. The sugar in fruit juice helps with the creatine uptake by raising insulin levels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the benefits of creatine?

Creatine helps you build muscle. Research has shown that people with more muscle tend to have a higher metabolism, allowing them to use calories from food intake more effectively. In short, when you have more muscle you burn fat easier.

Do I have to take creatine?

Unless your doctor has instructed you to take certain supplements, you do not have to take them.

Are creatine supplements safe?

Whether or not creatine supplements are safe to take depends on a number of factors. Learn more about the safety of supplements here.

What supplements do I need to take?

No one can answer that aside from your doctor. To learn more about the various supplements that doctors commonly recommend, check out this article.

Using creatine in your daily regimen can be great.  Now you need an exercise plan that fits your lifestyle and goals. Check out our PRO plan to see how we can help you stay motivated and focused all year long!