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A parent wants to protect their child. A coach wants to keep athletes safe, but somewhere along the way, myths become accepted as facts.

Creatine isn't like certain medications that stimulate appetite. It doesn't appear to directly increase hunger hormones, and it doesn't contain calories that would somehow make you crave more food.

As someone who has used creatine for years while working in military human performance, endurance sports, strength training, and tactical performance environments, I've noticed that many people misunderstand how creatine works.

Unlike caffeine, creatine does not increase adrenaline, block adenosine receptors, or stimulate the central nervous system.

At first glance, it can seem like the answer is yes. Your body weight goes up, muscles may feel fuller, and stomach may even feel slightly bloated during the first week or two.

Creatine can increase water storage inside muscle cells, particularly during the first few weeks of supplementation. However, this water is stored primarily inside muscle tissue, not underneath the skin where facial puffiness typically occurs.