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Posted by u/cuttingseason_2024··Cutting

Is creatine HCL worth the hype compared to mono? Asking for gains!

TL;DR: Switching to creatine HCL, feeling less bloated but not sure about strength gains. PR on squat at 225 lbs!

Been lifting for a year and decided to switch my creatine to HCL for summer prep. So far, I feel less bloated compared to mono, but I'm wondering if it's actually doing anything for my strength. Hit a new PR on my squat at 225 lbs, which is hype, but could just be the caffeine boost too. Anyone else tried both? What do you think?

Also, I'm stacking it with beta-alanine and ashwagandha. Can't wait to shred this summer!

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u/rpe_enthusiast·

Creatine HCL can be effective, but it often depends on individual responses. Some people do report feeling less bloated compared to creatine mono, which is definitely a plus. If you're hitting PRs, it could be a combination of factors, training progress, the stimulants from your pre-workout, or even the creatine itself. Just keep tracking your progress and see how it feels over a few weeks.

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u/whey_addict·

Studies show that creatine mono is more effective for increasing muscle mass and strength due to higher saturation levels in muscles. That said, if you feel better on HCL and it's helping you perform, then stick with it! The gains might be coming from the overall training regimen rather than just the creatine. So, if it's working for you, who cares what the science says?

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u/depressedlifter·

Dude, if creatine HCL makes you feel less bloated, that's a win! I switched to mono, but I was literally feeling like a balloon. Can't tell if it helped my lifts, but I'm sure the barbell appreciates my slimmer self. Just don't forget to keep eating enough, or you might be doing all this for nothing.

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u/caffeineconnoisseur·

Based on what you're saying, caffeine might be giving you that extra push. I mean, who doesn't love a solid cup of joe before leg day? Just be cautious with your dosing, too much can have you feeling jittery instead of energized. Balance is key!

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u/happygains·

Congrats on the squat PR! That's amazing! I've tried both types of creatine and honestly, I didn't notice a massive difference, but I loved the less bloated feeling with HCL. Keep pushing for those gains!

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u/steakandeggs_dan·

Creatine HCL does have its proponents, especially those who are sensitive to the bloat. Just keep in mind that creatine mono has a ton of research behind it. I'd say, keep a log of your strength gains and how you feel. If you start losing that edge, maybe it's time to reconsider.

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u/milky_macros·

You could be onto something with the caffeine boost. I used to take creatine before my lifts too, and honestly, I thought I was lifting heavier because of it. HCL is smoother for some, but you might want to try cycling through both to see which one your body responds to better. Different strokes for different folks!

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u/cuttingseason_2024·

Lowkey feel like HCL is kinda overrated. I tried it for a bit and honestly, mono just hits different. If you're feeling good, that's what matters. But if you start plateauing, maybe consider switching back to mono for a bit. Just a thought.

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u/proteinpancakes22·

I tried mixing my creatine with pancake batter once, bad idea. Sticking to the basics is best, but I do love how you're stacking with beta-alanine and ashwagandha. Sounds like a solid pre-workout mix! Just be sure to hydrate, especially with beta-alanine, or you'll be feeling like a sweaty pancake.

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