Chemically, creatine is defined as an organic compound having the nominal formula (H2N)(HN)CN(CH3)CH2CO2H, or simply C4H9N3O2.
Creatine is a natural substance that is used in the human body as a source of energy for muscle contraction. Approximately half of the required amount of substance comes from specific foods normally included in one’s diet, while the other half is produced by the liver, pancreas and kidneys. These organs are able to produce about one gram of creatine everyday. The human body converts creatine into phosphocreatine and stores about 95% of it in the muscles, where it is used for energy during physical activity. The other 5% consists of small amounts of substance found in the heart, brain or other tissues.
Because of its characteristics, many athletes eat more foods that contain creatine or opt for creatine supplements in order to improve their athletic performances and increase their strength, especially during intense short-duration sports such as weight lifting. Recent studies suggest that creatine’s properties are also useful in fighting certain illnesses that are strongly linked to muscle weakness, such as heart failure or muscular dystrophy.