06-12
2019
Creatine monohydrate traditionally follows a loading-maintenance-off cycle: a loading phase of 20 grams daily for 5 to 7 days to rapidly saturate muscular creatine stores, followed by a maintenance dose of 3–5 grams per day, then periodic breaks from supplementation. Some users experience bloating, diarrhea or mild water retention during the loading stage. Creatine HCl requires no loading phase; only 1–2 grams daily delivers comparable blood plasma creatine levels. Thanks to superior solubility, it causes far less gastrointestinal irritation, with lower rates of bloating and cramping. It is the milder alternative for anyone wary of facial puffiness or stomach discomfort.