Scientist Reacts: Why Megadosing Creatine Is A Waste Of Time
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Nov 22, 2025
Creatine is often dubbed a 'cognitive super-drug,' but the hype around mega-dosing is misleading. The hosts critically evaluate various claims from health influencers, debunking the idea that 20 grams a day is beneficial. They explore the actual effects on brain health, resistance training, and potential side effects. Insights on how to judge health claims and a simple, effective dosing protocol are shared. Ultimately, they recommend a modest daily intake of 5 grams while encouraging listeners to prioritize sleep and training.
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Five Grams Daily, Consistently
Take 5 grams of creatine daily and be consistent rather than mega-dosing intermittently.
Combine creatine with regular resistance training to get measurable muscle benefits.
insights INSIGHT
Dose Versus Consistency
There is little evidence that higher creatine doses outperform a standard maintenance dose.
Consistency over time matters more than short-term loading for most outcomes.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Hosts' Long-Term Use Stories
Nick Arapis began taking creatine in 2007 and has used 5–10 grams daily for almost 20 years.
Matt Kaeberlein started regular use around 2020 and typically takes five grams a day.
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Creatine is being called a "cognitive super-drug" that feels like "speed without the speed." Influencers are telling you to mega-dose 20 grams a day for brain power, bone health, and more. But what does the science actually say?In this episode, we go beyond the hype and fact-check the wildest creatine claims taking over the internet. I break down the real evidence on mega-dosing, and put the cognitive benefits to the testI react to clips from Paul Saladino, Jeff Cavalier, Rhonda Patrick, and Dave Asprey to separate proven fact from marketing fiction. Discover the simple, science-backed creatine protocol that actually works, and save your money (and your gut) in the process.This video was produced by One Billion Media, an agency that specializes in YouTube virality for health brands and experts. Learn more about their work here:https://onebillionmedia.com/00:01:23 - High-Level Reality Check on Creatine00:03:12 - Hosts' Personal Histories with Creatine00:05:17 - How to Evaluate Health Influencers & Their Claims00:08:40 - Paul Saladino (MD): Analysis of Mega-Dosing Claims (20g/day) for Brain & Bones00:23:16 - Jeff Cavaliere (Physical Therapist): Claims on Depression, Parkinson's, and MS00:31:22 - Discussion on Creatine for Sleep Deprivation & High Stress00:34:28 - The "No Downside" Myth & Side Effects (GI Issues, Microbiome)00:37:29 - Rhonda Patrick (PhD): "Feels Like Speed" Claim & Brain Aging00:46:00 - Dave Asprey: "Most Powerful Cognitive Drug" Claim00:53:02 - How Creatine Actually Works (The "Backup Battery" Analogy)00:53:49 - Final Take-Home Messages & Summary00:56:00 - Q&A: Best Time to Take Creatine & What to Do If You Miss a Day00:57:42 - Final Thoughts on Influencer HypeDISCLAIMER: The information provided on the Optispan podcast is intended solely for general educational purposes and is not meant to be, nor should it be construed as, personalized medical advice. No doctor-patient relationship is established by your use of this channel. The information and materials presented are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We strongly advise that you consult with a licensed healthcare professional for all matters concerning your health, especially before undertaking any changes based on content provided by this channel. The hosts and guests on this channel are not liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages or adverse effects that may arise from the application of the information discussed. Medical knowledge is constantly evolving; therefore, the information provided should be verified against current medical standards and practices.More places to find us:Twitter: https://x.com/Optispan_IncTwitter: https://twitter.com/mkaeberleinLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optispanInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/optispan_/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@optispanhttps://www.optispan.life/