The influence of creatine supplementation on the cognitive functioning of vegetarians and omnivores
The influence of creatine supplementation on the cognitive functioning of vegetarians and omnivores
Benton et al., 2011 | Br J Nutr | Rct
Citation
Benton David, Donohoe Rachel. The influence of creatine supplementation on the cognitive functioning of vegetarians and omnivores. Br J Nutr. 2011-Apr;105(7):1100-5. doi:10.1017/S0007114510004733
Abstract
Creatine when combined with P forms phosphocreatine that acts as a reserve of high-energy phosphate. Creatine is found mostly in meat, fish and other animal products, and the levels of muscle creatine are known to be lower in vegetarians. Creatine supplementation influences brain functioning as indicated by imaging studies and the measurement of oxygenated Hb. Given the key role played by creatine in the provision of energy, the influence of its supplementation on cognitive functioning was examined, contrasting the effect in omnivores and vegetarians. Young adult females (n 128) were separated into those who were and were not vegetarian. Randomly and under a double-blind procedure, subjects consumed either a placebo or 20 g of creatine supplement for 5 d. Creatine supplementation did not influence measures of verbal fluency and vigilance. However, in vegetarians rather than in those who consume meat, creatine supplementation resulted in better memory. Irrespective of dietary style, the supplementation of creatine decreased the variability in the responses to a choice reaction-time task.
Key Findings
Irrespective of dietary style, the supplementation of creatine decreased the variability in the responses to a choice reaction-time task.
Outcomes Measured
- Requires manual extraction
Population
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Population | See abstract |
| Sample Size | See abstract |
| Age Range | See abstract |
| Condition | cognitive |
MeSH Terms
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Arousal
- Cognition
- Creatine
- Diet, Vegetarian
- Dietary Supplements
- Double-Blind Method
- Energy Metabolism
- Female
- Humans
- Memory
- Reaction Time
- Verbal Behavior
- Young Adult
Evidence Classification
- Level: Rct
- Publication Types: Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial
- Vertical: creatine-cognition
Provenance
- PMID: 21118604
- DOI: 10.1017/S0007114510004733
- PMCID: Not in PMC
- Verified: 2026-04-09 via PubMed E-utilities API
Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09