Creatine supplements gain traction among women for strength and cognitive benefits
Creatine, long associated with male bodybuilding, is increasingly marketed to women, with brands like Thorne and Balenciaga entering the space. Women typically have 70-80% lower creatine stores than men, potentially making them more responsive to supplementation. The compound replenishes ATP, aiding high-intensity exercise and possibly offering cognitive and hormonal benefits.
The supplement's shift toward women's wellness is reflected in product innovation, with formats like gummies from Create and combination products such as BePure's Creatine & Magnesium appearing alongside traditional powders. Even fashion house Balenciaga has incorporated creatine into its techwear collection's smoothie offerings, signaling broader cultural acceptance beyond athletic circles.
Experts emphasize that women's naturally lower creatine stores—roughly 70 to 80 percent less than men's—create greater potential for supplementation benefits. The compound works by replenishing ATP, the body's immediate energy source, which supports high-intensity exercise performance, recovery between sets, and potentially cognitive and hormonal advantages.
This marketing shift could reshape how women approach supplementation, moving creatine from a niche bodybuilding product into mainstream wellness routines. If the cognitive and hormonal benefits hold up in broader research, it may influence how women manage aging, exercise recovery, and mental performance. However, the trend also raises questions about whether commercial interest is outpacing clinical evidence, potentially leaving consumers navigating inflated claims without clear guidance.