Creatine Supplementation In Wisconsin High School Female Athletes

• Published in: Journal of athletic training 2001-01, Vol.36 (2), p.S-83
• Main Authors: Krzykowski, J L, Streveler, MJ, McGuine, T A, Sullivan, J C
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1062-6050

The purpose of this study is to describe the prevalence of creatine supplementation, athlete knowledge, as well as behavior patterns associated with creatine supplementation in Wisconsin female high school athletes. A cross-sectional, multi-site, anonymous, descriptive survey was conducted between October 1999 and February 2000 in thirty-seven public high schools in Wisconsin. A total of 1630 female high school student-athletes, grades 9-12 completed the survey. This sample represents 39.9% of the total student-athletes surveyed. 3.9% (64/1630) of the female student athletes reported using creatine. Creatine use was highest in swimming (6.9%) and lowest in cross-country (1.3%). Increased power and lean mass gain (decrease fat) were the most likely perceived benefits of creatine supplementation, while dehydration and stomach upset were cited most often as unwanted side effects of creatine use. Users were encouraged to take creatine most often by their friends while their parents discouraged creatine use. High school athletes who use creatine may not be aware of the risks and benefits associated with creatine supplementation. Sports medicine professionals who work with this population need to educate athletes, coaches and parents about the use of creatine as a performance-enhancing supplement.