Amino acids are building blocks of proteins. Small proteins are called peptides. Creatine is a peptide made from 3 amino acids. Creatine helps to stabilize energy availability to muscles and the brain but can lessen general fatigue as well.

This small molecule does many things in our bodies. Interestingly, women have only 70 -80% of the amount of creatine that men store in their bodies, and once women reach menopause, that amount continues to lessen.

Moreover, research has found significantly lower concentrations of phosphocreatine, a molecule built from creatine used for recycling the energy molecule ATP, in the back muscles of people with fibromyalgia.

This article addresses why creatine supplementation could be valuable for women of any age with fibromyalgia but also why it might be especially important for post-menopausal women.

Creatine Benefits in Fibromyalgia, Especially for Women Near or In Menopause

• Improved Muscle Function: As women transition through menopause, they often experience muscle mass loss and strength decline due to reduced estrogen levels. Studies indicate that creatine supplementation can enhance muscle strength and improve body composition by promoting muscle mass retention. For peri- and postmenopausal women with fibromyalgia, this could lead to reduced pain levels and increased physical capacity, enabling them to engage more fully in daily activities.

• Enhanced Energy Levels: Fatigue is a common complaint among women with fibromyalgia. Creatine’s role in ATP regeneration can help mitigate feelings of fatigue. Research has shown that creatine supplementation can lead to improved energy levels and reduced fatigue in various populations, including those with chronic fatigue syndrome.

• Potential Pain Reduction: Preliminary studies suggest that creatine may have analgesic properties, which could be beneficial for fibromyalgia patients. By improving muscle metabolism and energy production, creatine may help in reducing the perception of pain, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life. It is thought to enhance the availability of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which plays a role in the pain signaling process as well as in energy production.

• Cognitive Benefits: Cognitive difficulties, often referred to as “fibro fog,” are prevalent in fibromyalgia. Creatine has been shown to improve cognitive performance in various settings, particularly under fatigue conditions⁶. This may be especially relevant for peri- and postmenopausal women who may also be experiencing cognitive decline due to hormonal changes.

• Safety and Accessibility: Creatine is generally considered safe for most individuals when taken at recommended doses. It is widely available as a dietary supplement, making it an accessible option for many women looking to manage their fibromyalgia symptoms.

Conclusion

Creatine supplementation holds promise for peri- and postmenopausal women suffering from fibromyalgia. By potentially improving muscle function, enhancing energy levels, and providing cognitive benefits, creatine may help alleviate some of the most challenging aspects of this condition. As always, remember to consult your healthcare providers before starting any new supplement regimen.

References

• Creatine Supplementation in Women’s Health: A Lifespan Perspective

• Evidence of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Fibromyalgia: Deviating Muscle Energy Metabolism Detected Using Microdialysis and Magnetic Resonance

• Clauw, D. J. (2014). Fibromyalgia: a clinical review. JAMA, 311(15), 1547-1555

• Creatine in Health and Disease

• Dysfunctional energy metabolisms in fibromyalgia compared with healthy subjects

• Risk of Adverse Outcomes in Females Taking Oral Creatine Monohydrate: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis