Flex Diet Podcast Episode 318: Could GAA Be the Next Creatine with Dr. Guillermo Escalante
Apr 7, 2025
Dr. Guillermo Escalante, an associate dean and creatine expert, joins to explore guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) as a potential game changer in supplements, comparable to creatine. They discuss its benefits for muscle and brain health, debating its efficacy and cost-effectiveness compared to creatine. The conversation shifts to the supplement industry's regulatory challenges and ethical implications within sports, particularly with the upcoming Enhanced Games, pushing for transparency in performance enhancement. This insightful dialogue is a must for anyone interested in the future of sports science.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
GAA as Creatine Precursor
- Guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) is a naturally occurring creatine precursor that the body methylates to produce creatine.
- Supplementing GAA can raise muscle creatine levels similarly to creatine monohydrate but at a lower cost, with potential methylation concerns.
GAA and Brain Creatine Uncertainty
- The ability of GAA to cross the blood-brain barrier is still uncertain.
- If it does cross, it might help increase brain creatine levels, potentially affecting neurological applications.
Manage GAA Methylation Side Effects
- Monitor homocysteine levels when supplementing with GAA due to its methylation process.
- Consider supplementing with methyl donors like beta-ene or folate to mitigate potential side effects.