Creatine is an amino acid that does not occur in proteins but is found in the muscle tissue of vertebrates both as phosphocreatine and in the free form; it an energy supplier for muscle contraction. Half of the creatin in our bodies is created by in the kidney, liver, and pancreas and the balance is taken in by way of food we eat. The free form of creatine is about a third of the total content.
High intensity, short duration work outs like sprinting breaks down phosphocreatine into creatine and phosphate. This releases a huge amount of energy and is used to regenerate ATP – A major source of energy for cellular reactions, available in muscles. Use of creatine is increasing because of its high energy releasing abilities in a short duration. A study tells us athletes have almost consumed up $1.4 billion of creatine. Creatine helps build high muscle mass with extra energy.
Creatine and High Blood Pressure
Creatine kinase is an enzyme found in brain, muscle and other tissues that catalyzes the conversion of ADP and phosphocreatine into creatine and ATP. This enzyme regulates,transports and stores creatine to receptor cells (sites of consumption). The contraction process and active membranous transport of these sites are enhanced by the now readily available ATP. The enhanced activity can be found in cardiovascular muscle and other high activity demanding tissues. The result of this increased metabolic activity is increased trophic response and increased ability of renal tubes to retain sodium salt. However it is still a matter of controversy that creatine is directly connected to high blood pressure, the increased sodium level sure affects your blood pressure especially if your physiological level is high.
Who are suspect to higher blood pressure with creatine presence?
A random study that was recently conducted finds interesting facts. The systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels were found higher at 9 mm and 5 mm in people with high creatine presence than others. This was normal in case of people of African origin. It was also noted that those with greater metabolic activities are likely to have higher chances of blood pressure owing to their higher energetic capacity.
Symptoms of High Blood Pressure following Creatine Use
Dizziness, diarrhea, upset stomach, fatigue, weight gain, kidney damage are the usual symptoms. Urine test can uncover whether your kidneys are functioning alright or not by higher creatine presence. Long term side effects of creatine use are not still clear.