The new experiment
Gordji-Nejad and colleagues published a randomised, double-blind crossover study in Nutrients in 2026 involving 29 healthy adults. Each received creatine or placebo in separate sessions during 21 hours of sleep deprivation. Cognitive performance was tested at intervals overnight.
Findings and scope
Creatine attenuated deterioration in some logic, numerical, processing-speed and vigilance tasks. This does not demonstrate higher general intelligence, dementia prevention or long-term benefit. An acute protocol with few participants needs confirmation in larger samples and different settings.
Sports evidence asks a different question
NIH ODS describes more established evidence for short, repeated bouts of intense effort. Benefits differ between activities and individuals. Creatine can increase body weight through water retention, so a scale change does not automatically mean a change in body fat.
Before buying a supplement
Separate your practical goal from advertising. A laboratory result does not identify a suitable product or dose for you. Discuss conditions, medicines and safety concerns with a qualified professional. Do not use creatine to intentionally extend wakefulness or make driving while tired seem safe.
