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Posted by u/squat_to_pizza路

Caffeine + Creatine, Broski Combo or No-Go?

TL;DR: Can I mix caffeine and creatine or should I keep them apart?

So, im on this caffeine kick lately, but I've heard some peeps say it can mess with creatine's gains train. Like, are they total haters or is there some truth to this? I mean, my pre-workout has both, and I thought I was just hitting PRs while living my best pizza life. Is there a science-based reason to separate them, or can I keep my double shot espresso and creatine smoothie together? Asking for my muscles, of course.

22 comments

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u/squat_to_pizza路

Bro, you're mixing espresso with gains? That's like pizza on leg day! 馃槀 Seriously though, if you're feeling good and hitting PRs, keep doing your thing. Just don't skip your rest days while you're at it.

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u/midwest_lifter路

If you're concerned about it affecting your creatine gains, consider doing a test week where you drop the caffeine. Monitor your performance and see if there's a difference. That way, you can find out what's best for you.

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u/restday_enthusiast路

That sounds like a smart approach! A little self-experimentation never hurt anyone, and you'll know for sure what works best for your body and performance.

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u/cuttingseason_2024路

Honestly, caffeine and creatine are like the dynamic duo of workouts. I've been cutting and still take both, and I'm still seeing gains! Just don't go overboard with the caffeine; too much can lead to jitters.

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u/gainsandgrains路

You might also want to pay attention to how your body feels during workouts with both substances. Everyone reacts differently, so listen to your body! If you're smashing your PRs and feeling good, carry on.

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u/runningsneakers22路

My friend tried mixing them and ended up feeling super anxious during runs. But it works for some people, so I guess it's trial and error! Just don't skip on your hydration, especially if you're running a lot

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u/treadmill_hater路

This is like trying to run on a treadmill while drinking coffee; it's a slippery slope! Just stick to the heavy lifting and ditch the cardio-infused drinks.

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u/squat_to_pizza路

Facts! If you're a powerlifter, just stick to the creatine, leave the caffeine to the runners! Unless, of course, you want a caffeine buzz before attempting a new PR.

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u/cuttingseason_2024路

Ngl, I used to do both and didn't notice any issues, but I've read some people swear it affects them. Just do what works for you and track your progress!

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u/runningfromcardio路

Why would you mess with the gains train like that? Caffeine's for cardio bunnies. Just stick to creatine if you want real muscle! 馃槀

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u/calisthenicsking路

For sure, both can be effective! But listen, if you notice you're feeling jittery or your heart rate is too high, maybe rethink that espresso smoothie. Your body knows what it can handle!

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u/bro_split_bro_420路

Caffeine with creatine? Sounds like a recipe for a gym disaster! Just stick to your squats and avoid the treadmill. Seriously though, if it's working for you, go for it.

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u/restday_enthusiast路

I used to take my caffeine and creatine together, and honestly, it worked fine for me. Just remember, recovery is key! Make sure you're prioritizing sleep and nutrition too, especially on those caffeine-fueled days.

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u/midwest_lifter路

Caffeine and creatine can actually work well together for most people. There's some evidence suggesting caffeine might slightly blunt the effects of creatine, but for most lifters, the benefits of both can outweigh the downsides. If your pre-workout has both and you're seeing gains, it's likely fine to keep going with it.

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u/midwest_lifter路

Some research suggests that caffeine can inhibit the benefits of creatine, particularly for strength and power athletes. But the difference is often small enough that many lifters won't notice. Focus on your overall diet and training, and adjust based on how you feel.

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u/cuttingseason_2024路

And if you're going to experiment, maybe throw in a pizza for good measure. 馃槀 You gotta keep things fun while you're lifting!

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u/squat_to_pizza_5132路

Pizza and gains go hand in hand, but caffeine and creatine might need a little distance! Just make sure you're eating enough carbs to back it up. Or just eat more pizza, honestly!

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u/squat_to_pizza路

Experimenting is the best part of lifting! Just be ready to adjust if something feels off. And hey, if you discover the perfect coffee-creatine smoothie, you might just start a trend! 馃崟

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u/runningfromcardio路

Lmao, bro, you might be onto something there. Pizza-infused pre-workout! Just don't forget the weights! 馃崟

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u/midwest_lifter路

If you're set on using both, maybe try to space them out a bit. Take your creatine pre-workout and the caffeine closer to your workout. Just keep an eye on how you feel with that combo

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u/midwest_lifter路

A lot of people think caffeine interferes with creatine, but research shows that they can actually complement each other well. The stimulant effect of caffeine can enhance your workout performance, while creatine helps with strength and recovery. So, if your pre-workout has both, you're probably not sabotaging your gains. Just be mindful of your total caffeine intake; too much can lead to jitters or crashes. I'd say keep enjoying that espresso with your creatine smoothie, as long as you're feeling good during your workouts.

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u/gainsandgrains路

There are studies showing that caffeine can enhance performance, especially in endurance activities. While some people believe it interferes with creatine's benefits, it often depends on individual tolerance. Just ensure you're hydrating well, since both can affect hydration status.

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