Does creatine affect lipid profile? a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials
Abstract
Introduction Creatine, recognized for its regulatory functions in various metabolic tissues, has aroused interest regarding its systemic effects. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of creatine supplementation on blood lipid profile parameters. Methods A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines (CRD420251025690). Searches were conducted in EMBASE, Lilacs, CINAHL, MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science databases up to June 2025. Randomized clinical trials involving adults receiving oral creatine supplementation versus placebo were included. The outcomes analyzed included triglycerides, total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c). Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool, and certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE system. Results We selected 8 RCTs. Pooled analyses demonstrated no statistically significant effects of creatine supplementation on total cholesterol (MD: 2.9 mg/dL; 95% CI: −7.44 to 13.24; I2 = 46%), LDL-C cholesterol (MD: 4.08 mg/dL; 95% CI: −2.55 to 10.70; I2 = 8%), HDL-C (MD: −0.68 mg/dL; 95% CI: −3.94 to 2.59; I2 = 0%), or triglycerides (MD: 7.95 mg/dL; 95% CI: −13.73 to 29.63; I2 = 55%). The certainty of evidence was classified as very low for total cholesterol and triglycerides and low for LDL-C and HDL-C. Methodological limitations were identified in the randomization and reporting of results processes.…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.
Read the paper
Related studies
- Biportal endoscopic versus microscopic lumbar decompressive laminectomy in patients with spinal stenosis: A randomized controlled trial
- A whey protein-based multi-ingredient nutritional supplement stimulates gains in lean body mass and strength in healthy older men: A randomized controlled trial
- Supplement-based nutritional strategies to tackle frailty: A multifactorial, double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, proof-of-concept trial of creatine monohydrate as adjunctive treatment for bipolar depression
- Creatine supplementation (3 g/day) and bone health in older women: a 2-year, randomized, placebo-controlled trial
- A Multi-Ingredient Nutritional Supplement in Combination With Resistance Exercise and High-Intensity Interval Training Improves Cognitive Function and Increases N-3 Index in Healthy Older Men: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Go deeper in Evidence Hub
Evidence Hub adds a study data sheet (design, sample size, evidence level, key numbers), an AI summary and a chat grounded in the paper's text.