Creatine supplementation protocols with or without training interventions on body composition: a GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis.

Background: Despite the robust evidence demonstrating positive effects from creatine supplementation (primarily when associated with resistance training) on measures of body composition, there is a lack of a comprehensive evaluation regarding the influence of creatine protocol parameters (including dose and form) on body mass and estimates of fat-free and fat mass.

Methods: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effect of creatine supplementation on body composition were included. Electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched up to July 2023. Heterogeneity tests were performed. Random effect models were assessed based on the heterogeneity tests, and pooled data were examined to determine the weighted mean difference (WMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results: From 4831 initial records, a total of 143 studies met the inclusion criteria. Creatine supplementation increased body mass (WMD: 0.86 kg; 95% CI: 0.76 to 0.96, I = 0%) and fat-free mass (WMD: 0.82 kg; 95% CI: 0.57 to 1.06, I = 0%) while reducing body fat percentage (WMD: -0.28 %; 95% CI: -0.47 to -0.09; I = 0%). Studies that incorporated a maintenance dose of creatine or performed resistance training in conjunction with supplementation had greater effects on body composition.

Conclusion: Creatine supplementation has a small effect on body mass and estimates of fat-free mass and body fat percentage. These findings were more robust when combined with resistance training.