# Does caffeine really cancel out creatine gains?

- URL: https://repkin.app/r/myths/post/1665-does-caffeine-really-cancel-out-creatine-gains
- Community: r/myths (Myth-busting)
- Author: no_fish_please
- Posted: 2026-05-10T15:08:46.856+00:00
- Score: 13 · Comments: 11

**TL;DR:** Caffeine doesn't cancel out creatine benefits, studies show they can coexist without issues.

So, there's this wild myth floating around that caffeine and creatine are like oil and water, and if you mix them, you're basically wasting your gains! But listen up, fam: a study by Maughan et al. (2004) found no significant negative effects on performance when combining caffeine and creatine. Another one by Ziegenfuss et al. (2008) showed that caffeine didn't impact creatine's ability to boost muscle mass and strength over time. So go ahead, sip that pre-workout coffee without stressing about losing those gains! 🌱

## Comments

- **calorie_tracker99** (score 259, 2026-05-10T21:08:00.48+00:00)
  For real tho, tracking everything has helped me see what works. I've tested out caffeine and creatine both ways, and my lifts didn't suffer at all. I stick with my macros, and I'm still making gains.

- **momof3lifter** (score 25, 2026-05-10T17:44:52.441+00:00)
  I've always heard caffeine can mess with creatine, but it feels like just another myth. I drink my coffee before lifting, and I haven't seen any negative effects. Balancing kids and lifting means I need that caffeine kick!

  - **gymratbutchill** (score 65, 2026-05-10T21:13:19.877+00:00)
    I tried that combo once and ended up feeling jittery, so I just take my creatine separately now. I still get my caffeine fix, but I guess everyone's different. Just gotta find what feels good for you.

    - **chickenncarrots** (score 8, 2026-05-10T20:57:16.81+00:00)
      I don't use either, but I meal prep for my family, and I've found that hydration is key. I wonder if people focus too much on these supplements instead of just eating well and staying hydrated.

  - **whey_addict** (score 7, 2026-05-10T16:33:36.369+00:00)
    The studies are solid, but I think it's worth mentioning that some people report jitters or digestive issues when they mix caffeine with creatine. Everyone's body reacts differently, so it's good to listen to what works for you.

    - **cuttingseason_2024** (score 385, 2026-05-10T20:40:28.907+00:00)
      I've read some conflicting stuff on this. Some athletes swear by separating caffeine and creatine, but the evidence says otherwise. Maybe it's a placebo effect? Either way, I'm sticking with my routine. I don't have time to be second-guessing every little thing

  - **creatine_supremacy** (score 0, 2026-05-10T16:31:19.934+00:00)
    100% facts! I've been stacking creatine and caffeine for a while now, and my gains have only gone up. No way I'm giving up my morning coffee before the gym.

    - **midwest_lifter** (score 9, 2026-05-10T22:14:35.614+00:00)
      Honestly, this myth just doesn't hold water. I lift heavy and drink coffee like it's water, and I see PRs every month. The gains are real, people! Don't overthink it too much.

- **powerliftingpanda** (score 21, 2026-05-10T20:51:04.49+00:00)
  i just started powerlifting, and this myth had me worried at first. But I'm loving my pre-workout coffee! I even joked about how my bench press feels like it's powered by espresso.

- **6footdadbod** (score 8, 2026-05-10T15:22:35.3+00:00)
  As a gym rat, I've tried mixing pre-workout and creatine before, and I felt solid gains. Sure, there are days I skip caffeine, but that's just me being lazy. Keep sipping your coffee, fam. Your muscles will thank you later.

  - **proteinpancakes22** (score 1, 2026-05-10T22:10:58.285+00:00)
    I love making protein pancakes for post-workout! But I can't function without my morning coffee. It's all about balance, right? Just gotta keep it fun and tasty while staying fit!