Micronized Creatine: Benefits, Best Supplements, and More
Posted by Leonard Shemtob on Feb 10, 2025
Micronized creatine is a popular supplement that helps with muscle growth, strength, and recovery. It is a finer, more easily dissolvable form of creatine monohydrate, making it easier to mix and absorb.
Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts prefer it because it reduces stomach discomfort and improves performance. In this article, we will explain what micronized creatine is, how it works, its benefits, and the best supplements with micronized creatine.
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Short Summary
- What It Is: Micronized creatine is a finer version of creatine monohydrate that dissolves better and absorbs faster.
- How It Works: Supports ATP production, giving muscles more energy during workouts.
- Why Choose Micronized Creatine? It’s easier to digest, dissolves better in water, and causes less bloating compared to regular creatine.
- Benefits: It boosts muscle strength, increases power output, enhances muscle growth, and improves exercise performance.
- Usage & Dosage: Typically taken in 3-5 grams daily, mixed with water or a drink.
- Product Recommendations: For a high-quality, pure micronized creatine monohydrate supplement, Bucked Up Creatine Monohydrate is a top choice.
What is Micronized Creatine?
"Micronized" means the creatine powder has been processed to make the particles much smaller. Think of it like regular sugar versus powdered sugar – both are sugar, but powdered sugar is much finer.
Regular creatine monohydrate can sometimes feel gritty or clumpy when mixed in water, but micronized creatine is super smooth. This makes it easier for your body to absorb and use. Plus, because it’s so fine, it’s less likely to cause bloating or stomach discomfort, which some people experience with regular creatine.
Benefits of Micronized Creatine
- Better Absorption: The smaller particles make it easier for your body to absorb and use the creatine.
- Increased Strength and Power: It helps your muscles produce more energy, allowing you to lift heavier weights and perform better during workouts.
- Supports Muscle Growth: Regular use can help you build lean muscle over time by improving exercise performance.
- Faster Recovery: It may help reduce muscle damage and inflammation after exercise, leading to quicker recovery times.
- Improves Workout Performance: With more energy and endurance, you can train longer and harder without feeling tired too quickly.
- Less Stomach Discomfort: Some people experience stomach upset with regular creatine. Micronized creatine is easier to dissolve and absorb, which reduces the chances of bloating or digestive issues.
Micronized Creatine vs. Creatine Monohydrate
Particle Size: The biggest difference is the size of the particles. Micronized creatine has been processed to make the particles much smaller – about 20 times smaller than regular creatine monohydrate.
Absorption: Because the particles are smaller, micronized creatine dissolves more easily in water and is absorbed faster by your body. This may lead to quicker results.
Mixability: Micronized creatine mixes much more easily in liquids. You're less likely to end up with a gritty texture or clumps in your drink.
Digestion: Some people find that regular creatine monohydrate can cause stomach upset, bloating, or digestive issues. Micronized creatine is generally easier on the stomach because it dissolves better.
Effectiveness: Both types work the same way to boost energy, strength, and muscle growth. The main difference is that micronized creatine is just a more refined and user-friendly version.
Price: Micronized creatine is usually a bit more expensive than creatine monohydrate powder because of the extra processing involved.
Best Supplements with Micronized Creatine
- Bucked Up Creatine Monohydrate – Best Pure Micronized Creatine Monohydrate
- Aftershock Critical Mass by Myogenix – Best Mass Gainer Protein with Micronized Creatine
1. Bucked Up Creatine Monohydrate
Creatine Monohydrate by Bucked Up is designed to support muscle growth, strength, and performance. It contains high-quality, micronized creatine monohydrate, which is easier for your body to absorb and use.
Creatine helps provide energy to muscles during short, high-intensity activities like weightlifting or sprinting. It supports ATP regeneration, allowing you to perform more reps or generate more power before feeling fatigued.
In addition to boosting strength and muscle size, creatine can also speed up recovery after workouts, helping your muscles recover faster. This micronized creatine powder is unflavored and is NSF Certified for Sport. It is clinically graded, dosed, and tested.
Key Ingredients of Bucked Up Creatine Monohydrate
-
Pure Creatine Monohydrate (Micronized): This is a form of creatine, a naturally occurring compound in the body that helps supply energy to muscles, especially during high-intensity exercise. "Micronized" means it's been processed into smaller particles for easier mixing and absorption. It's used to boost strength, power, and muscle growth.
Key Benefits of Bucked Up Creatine Monohydrate
- It improves your muscle growth.
- This micronized formula is easily mixed and absorbed by your body.
- It is gently on your stomach.
- It increases strength and power.
- It accelerates your muscle recovery.
- It improves your exercise performance.
- It boosts your endurance.
- It enhances your energy levels.
Customer Reviews: Bucked Up Creatine Monohydrate
Creatine
“This is a solid creatine with nothing bad to say about it - it does what its meant to do. No bad taste - mixes easy etc.. 5 stars.”
-Rgd
2. Myogenix Critical Mass
Aftershock Critical Mass™ is a lean mass gainer that delivers 60g of protein from whey protein isolates and milk protein isolates. Its ultra-low lactose, low glycemic formula makes it easy to digest without causing bloating or gas.
This supplement includes a balanced mix of lean muscle-building protein and carbs, such as WaxyMASS™ waxy maize, providing the right nutrients to support muscle recovery and growth.
The protein blend helps promote lean muscle mass, while BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) assist in reducing muscle soreness and fatigue. Additionally, Aftershock Critical Mass™ includes antioxidants like Vitamin C, B vitamins, and Alpha Lipoic Acid, which contribute to overall health and joint support.
Key Ingredients of Myogenix Critical Mass
1. Critical Mass Zero Lactose Protein Blend
- Ultra-filtered lactose-free Milk Protein Isolate: Provides high-quality protein with minimal lactose, supporting muscle repair and growth.
- Cross-Flow Micro-Filtered Lactose-Free Whey Protein: A fast-digesting protein that aids in quick recovery post-workout.
- Ultra-Filtered Lactose-Free Whey Protein Isolate: Contains a high percentage of protein and low fats and carbohydrates, ideal for muscle building.
2. Critical Mass Carbohydrates
- Maltodextrin: A complex carbohydrate that provides quick energy and helps replenish glycogen stores.
- Cane Juice Solids: Natural sweetener that also contributes to carbohydrate content.
- WaxyMass™ High Molecular Weight Waxy Maize Polymers: A specialized carbohydrate designed for rapid digestion and nutrient delivery to muscles.
- Chicory Extract: A source of inulin, which acts as a prebiotic fiber, promoting gut health.
- Oat Fiber: Adds fiber for digestive health and helps maintain energy levels.
- Glucose Powder: Provides fast-acting energy, useful during workouts.
- Oat Bran & Rice Bran: Sources of fiber and nutrients that support overall health.
3. MassFat™
- Canola Oil & Sunflower Oil: Healthy fats that provide essential fatty acids for hormone production and overall health.
- Cold Pressed Flax Seed: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
- Borage Oil & CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid): These fats may help in fat loss while promoting lean muscle gain.
4. Amino Stack
- Micronized Creatine Monohydrate: Enhances ATP production for improved strength and muscle growth.
- MagnaPower Creatine (Magnesium Creatine Chelate): A patented form of creatine for better absorption and reduced water retention.
- L-Glutamine: An amino acid that aids in recovery, reduces muscle soreness, and supports immune function.
Key Benefits of Myogenix Critical Mass
- This high-calorie formula is perfect for hard muscle gainers.
- It improves your muscle mass gains.
- It helps increase your energy.
- It provides zero bloating and easy digestion.
- It also minimizes fat gain while bulking.
- It speeds up your muscle recovery.
- It improves your athletic performance.
Customer Reviews: Myogenix Critical Mass
Outstanding, helps gain some mass back without any fat
“Even at age 54, this product and hard work helped me gain back 10 lbs of ***********, without adding any fat. Also tastes great and mixes easily. Highly recommended.”
-Tim
my phenix after shock
“This product I love it does what ist made for!! Good high quality protein use after each workout , and I feel good taste great too!! I'd recommend this for anyone!! Looking for a tasty and good quality protein.”
-mannie
Highly recommended
“Cookies and Cream, hands down, best tasting protein I've ever had. I bet I have tried at least 20 different kinds. It's the best. Also, some weight gainers upset my stomach, but this one doesn't. It contains chelated creatine (bonds to magnesium) rather than monohydrate (bonds with water). It is argued that this leads to better absorption and less bloating. Now I don't know if that's true, but I do know that this product didn't make my stomach hurt. I WILL take this again.”
-Big L.
Potential Side Effects
While micronized creatine is generally safe for most people, some may experience minor side effects, including:
- Digestive Issues: Some people may experience bloating, gas, stomach cramps, or diarrhea, especially when starting a new supplement or taking high doses.
- Water Retention: Creatine can cause your muscles to hold extra water, leading to a temporary increase in body weight.
- Dehydration: Because creatine pulls water into your muscles, it’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Weight Gain: Since creatine helps your muscles hold more water, it can cause temporary weight gain.
- Kidney Strain: While generally safe for healthy individuals, high protein intake or certain ingredients like creatine might put extra strain on the kidneys in people with pre-existing kidney problems. If you have kidney issues, consult your doctor before using these products.
How to Use Micronized Creatine
Dosage: A common starting point is 3-5 grams per day. Some people use a "loading phase" where they take a higher dose (around 20 grams) for a short period (5-7 days) to quickly saturate their muscles with creatine, followed by the lower maintenance dose. However, a loading phase isn't strictly necessary. Check the product label for specific instructions.
Mixing: Micronized creatine mixes easily in liquids like water, juice, or your protein shake. Just add the powder to your drink and stir or shake until it's dissolved.
Timing: You can take creatine at any time of day. Some people prefer to take it before or after their workouts.
Hydration: Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, as creatine can make your muscles hold more water.
FAQs: Micronized Creatine
Q: Is micronized creatine better than regular creatine?
A: Yes, micronized creatine is often considered better because it mixes more easily, absorbs faster, and is less likely to cause bloating or stomach discomfort.
Q: Do I need to cycle micronized creatine?
A: There’s no need to cycle micronized creatine. You can use it consistently without taking breaks, as long as you follow the recommended dosage.
Q: Is micronized creatine better than regular creatine?
A: Micronized creatine may be easier to digest and absorb than regular creatine, but both forms are effective. It comes down to personal preference and how your body responds.
Q: Can I take micronized creatine with other supplements?
A: Micronized creatine is generally safe to take with other common supplements, such as protein powder, BCAAs, and pre-workouts. However, if you are taking any medications or have any health conditions, it's always best to consult with your doctor before combining supplements.
Q: What's the best way to take micronized creatine?
A: Mix it with water, juice, or your protein shake. The micronized form dissolves easily.
Q: Will micronized creatine make me gain weight?
A: You might gain a small amount of weight due to water being pulled into your muscles, but this is not fat gain. It’s temporary and part of how creatine works.
Final Thoughts
Micronized creatine offers a convenient and potentially more effective way to supplement with creatine. Its enhanced solubility makes it easy to mix and consume, and for some people it may lead to faster absorption.
As discussed in this article, creatine, including the micronized form, is an effective supplement for those looking to enhance strength, muscle growth, and performance. It supports energy production during high-intensity workouts and aids in recovery afterward.
By following the recommended dosage and staying hydrated, micronized creatine can be a valuable addition to your supplement routine.
Sources:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8912867/
https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/creatine-monohydrate-by-bucked-up
https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/after-shock-critical-mass-by-myogenix
Written and Sponsored by Leonard Shemtob
Leonard Shemtob is President of Strong Supplements and a published author. Leonard has been in the supplement space for over 20 years, specializing in fitness supplements and nutrition. Leonard appears on many podcasts, written over 100 articles about supplements and has studied nutrition, supplementation and bodybuilding.
Leonard's articles have been published in many top publications around the web. Leonard enjoys weight training, playing basketball and yoga, and also enjoys hiking. In his free time he studies and works on improving himself. For more detailed information, visit his official blog.
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