The impact of creatine supplementation on cognitive function in elderly: a systematic review
Abstract
Introduction: Age-related cognitive decline is a growing public health concern, affecting daily functioning and quality of life. Recent studies suggest that creatine supplementation may improve cognitive performance by supporting mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress. However, findings are mixed. This systematic review examines the effects of creatine supplementation on cognitive functions in older adults.
Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. PubMed/Medline and EMBASE databases (2003–2025) were searched using the phrase “the effect of creatine supplementation on cognitive functions in the elderly.” After screening 35 studies, four systematic reviews and meta-analyses met inclusion criteria. These studies assessed cognitive function through neuropsychological tests measuring memory, attention, executive function, and processing speed.
Results: Meta-analyses indicated favorable effects of creatine on memory and processing speed in older adults. Xu et al. reported significant improvements in memory (SMD = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.18–0.44) and processing speed (SMD = −0.51, 95% CI: −1.01 to −0.01), with no significant effect on global cognition or executive function. Prokopidis et al. found the most pronounced effects in adults aged 66–76. McMorris et al. highlighted inconsistencies across studies, while Stares et al. found no additional benefit when creatine was combined with resistance training.
Conclusions: Creatine supplementation may…
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Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, 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.
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