Creatine may support brain function in Alzheimer's research

A small eight-week pilot study reported that 20 g/day of creatine raised total brain creatine by about 11% and was linked with modest improvements on cognitive tests, while experts say the evidence remains preliminary.

Researchers and commentators have renewed attention on creatine for its possible effects on brain health in people with Alzheimer's. A small eight-week pilot study published in May 2025 reported biochemical changes and modest cognitive benefits in participants. Creatine is a naturally occurring molecule present in foods and the body, and supplementation can raise phosphocreatine and support cellular energy processes. Experts note that current findings are preliminary and that creatine is not presented as a replacement for approved dementia treatments. Key points: - An eight-week pilot study reported that participants who took 20 grams of creatine monohydrate per day showed about an 11% increase in total brain creatine. - The study associated this increase with improvements on measures of working memory, attention and executive function, and researchers reported high participant compliance. - Researchers and independent experts emphasise the evidence is early-stage and stress that creatine is not a substitute for approved Alzheimer’s treatments. Summary: The pilot study suggests creatine supplementation can raise brain creatine levels and was associated with modest cognitive changes in people with Alzheimer's. Researchers describe the evidence as preliminary and say further research is needed. Undetermined at this time.