Creatine is a substance that the human body naturally produces mainly in the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. It is synthesized from three amino acids: glycine, arginine, and methionine. The body produces about 1 gram of creatine daily. Additionally, about half of the body's creatine comes from dietary sources, primarily red meat and fish. The rest is synthesized internally. Creatine is mostly stored in muscle tissue, where it helps provide energy during intense physical activity. Creatine supplements, commonly known as creatine monohydrate, are not extracted from foods but are synthesized industrially. The manufacturing process involves combining two chemical raw materials, sodium sarcosinate (an amino acid intermediate) and cyanamide (an organic compound), under controlled conditions to form creatine crystals. This powder is then refined and processed for consumption as a dietary supplement. To summarize, creatine comes from:
- Natural production in the body from amino acids,
- Dietary intake mainly from meat and fish,
- Industrial synthesis for supplements from sodium sarcosinate and cyanamide.
This provides a practical and reliable source to supplement the body's creatine levels, especially when higher doses are needed for athletic performance or muscle energy support.
