The effects of creatine monohydrate on blood glucose regulation in T2D

The effects of creatine monohydrate on blood glucose regulation in T2D⭕️

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of creatine monohydrate supplementation combined with exercise on glycemic control in patients with Type 2 diabetes.

Over 12 weeks, 25 participants (13 in the creatine group, 12 in the placebo group) engaged in a supervised exercise program, with the creatine group receiving 5 grams of creatine daily. The primary outcome measured was HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin), which significantly decreased in the creatine group compared to the placebo, indicating improved long-term blood sugar control.

Secondary outcomes included glucose and insulin levels from a meal tolerance test, insulin sensitivity indexes, physical capacity, and GLUT-4 protein translocation. While creatine enhanced GLUT-4 translocation and reduced blood glucose levels during the meal test, no significant changes were observed in insulin sensitivity or lipid profiles. The findings suggest that creatine supplementation, alongside exercise, may provide additional—independent—benefits for glycemic control in Type 2 diabetes without directly affecting insulin sensitivity.

Reference: Gualano B, DE Salles Painneli V, Roschel H, Artioli GG, Neves M Jr, De Sá Pinto AL, Da Silva ME, Cunha MR, Otaduy MC, Leite Cda C, Ferreira JC, Pereira RM, Brum PC, Bonfá E, Lancha AH Jr. Creatine in type 2 diabetes: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2011 May;43(5):7