Does creatine cause weight gain?

Creatine can cause a slight increase in scale weight (usually 1-3 pounds), but this is not fat gain. It is 'water weight' stored inside your muscle cells, which is actually a sign of healthy cellular hydration. This intracellular water helps your muscles perform better and recover faster.

About Creatine Monohydrate Benefits: A Professional Guide for Muscle and Health

This answer is drawn from the full physician-reviewed guide to Creatine Monohydrate Benefits: A Professional Guide for Muscle and Health on the GOAL.MD Vitamin Shop learning hub. Read the full guide for mechanism of action, evidence, dosing, safety, and interactions.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Michael Mimlitz, MD (NPI 1508891870), Chief Physician of GOAL.MD. Physician-supervised telehealth. More at goal.md/answers.