Creatine supplements are popular among fitness enthusiasts and athletes for their ability to support muscle growth, strength, and workout performance. Whether you're lifting at the gym or training for sports, creatine can help you push harder and recover faster, especially when paired with resistance training.
In this article, we’ll walk you through a buying guide based on expert insights from Ginny Sinense-Marks, RND, a registered nutritionist-dietitian. We’ve also rounded up our top creatine picks available on Lazada and Shopee, so you can find a trusted option that suits your needs and fitness goals.
Quick List - Top Creatine Supplements
Optimum Nutrition
Improved Muscle Strength and Recovery With Easy Mixing
Wheyl Nutrition Co.
Comes in Multiple Delicious Flavors for Various Preferences
Ginny Sinense-MarksI, RND, is a Nutrition & Lifestyle Counselor and a graduate of the University of the Philippines Diliman. She’s a member of the National Kidney Foundation in the USA and has been professionally involved in health and nutrition for over 20 years. Passionate about overall wellbeing beyond just health and fitness, she regularly speaks at corporate wellness events. Ginny believes that health is our life power and encourages everyone to seize every opportunity to improve and optimize it
David is a law graduate (LL.B) who has a sharp eye for details and a strong passion for helping others make smarter decisions. Since he joined mybest in 2020, he’s been working on buying guides that make it easier to find the best products—whether they’re everyday essentials or unique finds. Apart from his work at mybest, David has also written for Grotto Network, a digital platform from the University of Notre Dame, and has experience as a special educational needs assistant. These roles have helped him hone his ability to connect with people and make complex topics more relatable and easy to understand. His love for nature and moments of reflection keep him grounded, and this thoughtful perspective shines through in every article he writes for mybest.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Creatine helps boost strength and power, making it a go-to supplement for fitness performance and muscle growth.
Creatine is a compound found naturally in the muscles and plays a key role in producing energy during high-intensity activities like sprinting or lifting weights. Taking creatine as a supplement can help improve strength, boost power, and support muscle growth, especially when combined with resistance training. It may also help reduce recovery time between workouts.
It’s important not to confuse creatine with creatinine, a waste product from muscle breakdown and protein digestion. While creatine supports performance, high levels of creatinine in the blood can signal kidney issues and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Choosing the right creatine supplement can be overwhelming with all the forms, flavors, and brands available. To help you decide, here are key points to consider based on expert insights.
Third-party certifications verify safety, purity, and label accuracy—essential for both athletes and everyday creatine users.
When choosing a creatine supplement, it's important to verify that the product has been tested and certified by trusted third-party organizations. Certifications like NSF Certified for Sport, Informed Sport, USP Verified, and BSCG (Banned Substances Control Group) help confirm that the supplement is free from harmful contaminants, contains what the label claims, and adheres to strict manufacturing standards.
In the Philippines, also check if the product is registered with the FDA Philippines, as this confirms that it meets local safety and labeling regulations. These certifications and registrations are especially important for athletes and active individuals, helping avoid banned substances and ensuring product quality.
There are several types of creatine on the market, and choosing the right one can make a difference depending on your goals and sensitivity.
Creatine monohydrate is the most researched form and consistently delivers results in improving strength, performance, and muscle mass.
If you're looking for a tried-and-tested creatine supplement, creatine monohydrate is your best bet. Backed by over 90% of creatine-related studies, it is shown to effectively enhance exercise performance, muscle growth, and recovery, especially when paired with resistance training. It also boasts excellent solubility and absorption, making it suitable for most users.
Although some people may experience mild digestive issues, most tolerate monohydrate well. It’s also generally the most affordable form available. For best results, follow recommended dosages and stay well hydrated during use.
Micronized creatine is monohydrate with smaller particles for better solubility and less risk of stomach discomfort.
Micronized creatine offers the same performance benefits as regular creatine monohydrate, but it’s easier to mix into liquids and may be gentler on the digestive system. Its smaller particle size improves suspension in water or shakes and potentially enhances absorption.
This option is ideal for users with sensitive stomachs or those who want a smoother drinking experience. However, it tends to be slightly more expensive than standard monohydrate. If you value comfort and ease of use, micronized creatine is worth considering.
Other forms like creatine ethyl ester (CEE) and buffered creatine claim better absorption or stability, but studies show no clear advantages. Due to limited research, they aren’t highly recommended—monohydrate is still the most reliable option.
Taking the recommended dosage ensures safety and effectiveness. Consuming more than what you need only increases the risk of side effects.
The simplest and most effective way to use creatine is to take 3–5 grams per day. This daily dose is supported by research and works well for popular forms like creatine monohydrate and micronized creatine. Take your creatine at any time of day, mixing it with water, juice, or your favorite shake. For better absorption, consider taking it with a meal or a drink that contains carbohydrates or protein.
Always follow the instructions on your supplement’s label and consult a healthcare professional if you have any health conditions or concerns. Overdosing or incorrect use can lead to unnecessary side effects or wasted product, so sticking to the recommended amount is best for safe and effective results.
Creatine comes in various forms, such as powder, capsules, or gummies. Pick one that fits your lifestyle and dosing preferences.
Powdered creatine allows you to adjust your dosage, mix with different liquids, and is often more economical than pills or gummies.
Powdered creatine is ideal for gym-goers who want control over their intake. It’s versatile—you can blend it with protein shakes, juice, or plain water. It also offers quicker absorption when dissolved properly and is more affordable per serving than capsules or gummies.
However, powdered creatine may not suit everyone. It can cause bloating or digestive issues for some, especially in higher doses. Make sure to dissolve it well and follow label instructions to minimize discomfort.
Capsules and gummies are great for convenience, especially if you’re often on the go and prefer not to deal with powders.
If you value portability and ease of use, creatine capsules and gummies are convenient alternatives. They’re pre-measured, mess-free, and require no mixing. This format is especially useful for beginners or those with a busy lifestyle.
Do note that these options often deliver smaller amounts per serving and may require you to take multiple pieces to reach your desired dose. Also, gummies may contain added sugars or flavorings, so check the label if you’re watching your intake.
Unflavored creatine offers flexibility and is free from added sugars or artificial ingredients found in some flavored versions.
Unflavored creatine is ideal for those who want to mix their supplement with any drink or food without altering the taste. It’s also a good pick if you’re avoiding sugars, artificial sweeteners, or food dyes commonly found in flavored products.
Additionally, unflavored options tend to have fewer additives, which may reduce the risk of digestive issues. If you're after a cleaner and more versatile supplement, this is the safest choice. Always check the ingredient list to confirm that there are no unwanted extras.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Creatine Type | Free From Artificial Sweeteners | Free From Artificial Flavors | Free From Artificial Fillers | Form | Quantity | |||||
1 | Athlene Active Creatine Monohydrate | ![]() | Build Muscle and Strength With Pure Creatine | Creatine Monohydrate | Powder | 300g | ||||
2 | Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine Powder |Unflavored | ![]() | Improved Muscle Strength and Recovery With Easy Mixing | Micronized Creatine | Powder | 500g | ||||
3 | Wheyl Nutrition Co. Krea Micronized Creatine Powder|Flavored | ![]() | Comes in Multiple Delicious Flavors for Various Preferences | Micronized Creatine | Powder | 300g | ||||
4 | Minch Creatine Monohydrate Powder for Muscle Growth | ![]() | Creatine Support for Muscle Growth and Recovery | Creatine Monohydrate | Powder | 250g | ||||
5 | Nutrabio Creatine Monohydrate | ![]() | Fast-Absorbing Creatine for Better Performance | Creatine Monohydrate | Powder | 300g | ||||
6 | Muscletech Cell-Tech Creatine | ![]() | Optimized Formula for Peak Muscle Performance and Recovery | Creatine Monohydrate | Powder | 1360g | ||||
7 | Ozmolts Pure Form Creatine Monohydrate Powder | ![]() | Uses Micronized Creatine for Rapid Absorption | Creatine Monohydrate | unknown | Powder | 300g | |||
8 | Finaflex Pure Creatine | ![]() | Clean Creatine for Daily Muscle Recovery | Creatine Monohydrate | Powder | 300g | ||||
9 | San Nutrition PH-Modified Creatine | ![]() | Features a pH-Modified Formula for Digestive Comfort | unknown | Capsule | 120 Capsules | ||||
10 | Nutrie Creatine 5g Monohydrate Gummies | ![]() | Deliciously Easy and Enjoyable Creatine Solution | Creatine Monohydrate | Gummies | 60 Pieces |
Creatine Type | Creatine Monohydrate |
---|---|
Free From Artificial Sweeteners | |
Free From Artificial Flavors | |
Free From Artificial Fillers | |
Form | Powder |
Quantity | 300g |
Creatine Type | Micronized Creatine |
---|---|
Free From Artificial Sweeteners | |
Free From Artificial Flavors | |
Free From Artificial Fillers | |
Form | Powder |
Quantity | 500g |
Creatine Type | Micronized Creatine |
---|---|
Free From Artificial Sweeteners | |
Free From Artificial Flavors | |
Free From Artificial Fillers | |
Form | Powder |
Quantity | 300g |
Creatine Type | Creatine Monohydrate |
---|---|
Free From Artificial Sweeteners | |
Free From Artificial Flavors | |
Free From Artificial Fillers | |
Form | Powder |
Quantity | 250g |
Creatine Type | Creatine Monohydrate |
---|---|
Free From Artificial Sweeteners | |
Free From Artificial Flavors | |
Free From Artificial Fillers | |
Form | Powder |
Quantity | 300g |
Creatine Type | Creatine Monohydrate |
---|---|
Free From Artificial Sweeteners | |
Free From Artificial Flavors | |
Free From Artificial Fillers | |
Form | Powder |
Quantity | 1360g |
Creatine Type | Creatine Monohydrate |
---|---|
Free From Artificial Sweeteners | |
Free From Artificial Flavors | |
Free From Artificial Fillers | unknown |
Form | Powder |
Quantity | 300g |
Creatine Type | Creatine Monohydrate |
---|---|
Free From Artificial Sweeteners | |
Free From Artificial Flavors | |
Free From Artificial Fillers | |
Form | Powder |
Quantity | 300g |
Creatine Type | unknown |
---|---|
Free From Artificial Sweeteners | |
Free From Artificial Flavors | |
Free From Artificial Fillers | |
Form | Capsule |
Quantity | 120 Capsules |
Creatine Type | Creatine Monohydrate |
---|---|
Free From Artificial Sweeteners | |
Free From Artificial Flavors | |
Free From Artificial Fillers | |
Form | Gummies |
Quantity | 60 Pieces |
Below are some of the frequently asked questions we found on the web, answered by Ginny Sinense-MarksI, RND.
Creatine is generally well-tolerated, but some users may experience side effects. These include:
To avoid these effects, follow dosage instructions and consult a healthcare provider, especially if you have pre-existing conditions.
Creatine is considered safe for healthy individuals, but those with kidney issues should consult a doctor before use. Since creatine is filtered through the kidneys, people with renal conditions may face increased risks if they supplement without medical supervision.
Yes, stopping creatine can lead to a slight decrease in muscle size and strength. This is mostly due to water loss from the muscles and reduced performance benefits, especially during high-intensity training.
Looking to boost your gains even further? Check out our other expert-based guides on muscle-building supplements, whey proteins, and mass gainers to help you find the right products for your fitness goals.
No. 1: Athlene|Active Creatine Monohydrate
No. 2: Optimum Nutrition|Micronized Creatine Powder |Unflavored
No. 3: Wheyl Nutrition Co. |Krea Micronized Creatine Powder|Flavored
No. 4: Minch|Creatine Monohydrate Powder for Muscle Growth
No. 5: Nutrabio|Creatine Monohydrate
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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