Resistance Exercise and Creatine Supplementation on Fat Mass in Adults < 50 Years of Age: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Candow et al., 2023 | Nutrients | Meta Analysis

Citation

Candow Darren G, Prokopidis Konstantinos, ... Ostojic Sergej M. Resistance Exercise and Creatine Supplementation on Fat Mass in Adults < 50 Years of Age: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2023-Oct-12;15(20). doi:10.3390/nu15204343

Abstract

The combination of resistance exercise and creatine supplementation has been shown to decrease body fat percentage in adults ≥ 50 years of age. However, the effect on adults < 50 years of age is currently unknown. To address this limitation, we systematically reviewed the literature and performed several meta-analyses comparing studies that included resistance exercise and creatine supplementation to resistance exercise and placebo on fat mass and body fat percentage Twelve studies were included, involving 266 participants. Adults (<50 years of age) who supplemented with creatine and performed resistance exercise experienced a very small, yet significant reduction in body fat percentage (-1.19%, p = 0.006); however, no difference was found in absolute fat mass (-0.18 kg, p = 0.76). Collectively, in adults < 50 years of age, the combination of resistance exercise and creatine supplementation produces a very small reduction in body fat percentage without a corresponding decrease in absolute fat mass.

Key Findings

Collectively, in adults < 50 years of age, the combination of resistance exercise and creatine supplementation produces a very small reduction in body fat percentage without a corresponding decrease in absolute fat mass.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 266
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Humans
  • Adult
  • Creatine
  • Resistance Training
  • Exercise
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Body Composition
  • Muscle, Skeletal
  • Muscle Strength

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Meta-Analysis, Systematic Review, Journal Article
  • Vertical: creatine

Provenance


Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09