The Claim
Creatine monohydrate supplementation at 5 g/day for 8 weeks, when combined with cognitive behavioral therapy, reduces depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder not taking antidepressants, with a mean PHQ-9 score difference of 6.1 points compared to placebo.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
In adults with major depressive disorder who are not taking antidepressants, taking 5 grams of creatine monohydrate daily for 8 weeks along with cognitive behavioral therapy results in a 6.1-point greater reduction in depressive symptoms on the PHQ-9 scale compared to placebo.
See the scientific wording
Creatine monohydrate supplementation at 5 g/day for 8 weeks, when combined with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), significantly reduces depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder who are not taking antidepressants, with a mean PHQ-9 score difference of 6.1 points favoring creatine over placebo.
Creatine enters the brain and helps store extra energy in a form that neurons can use quickly when they need it. This extra energy allows brain cells in the area that controls mood to work better, repair themselves, and communicate more effectively, which reduces symptoms of depression.
What the research says
1 studyA study found that adults with depression who took 5 grams of creatine daily for 8 weeks along with therapy felt significantly better than those who only did therapy — exactly what the claim says.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.