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Effects of creatine supplementation on memory in healthy individuals: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Meta-analysis of 8 RCTs: creatine improved memory measures versus placebo overall (SMD 0.29, 95% CI 0.04–0.53; P=0.02; I²=66%), with a larger pooled effect in older adults (66–76 y: SMD 0.88, 95% CI 0.22–1.55; P=0.009) than younger adults (11–31 y: SMD 0.03, 95% CI -0.14 to 0.20; P=0.72).
Design
- SR + MA of RCTs in healthy humans
- 8 trials entered meta-analysis
Overall memory signal (abstract)
- SMD = 0.29 (95% CI 0.04–0.53; I² = 66%; P = 0.02)
Age subgroup (abstract)
- Older (66–76 y): SMD = 0.88 (95% CI 0.22–1.55; I² = 83%; P = 0.009)
- Younger (11–31 y): SMD = 0.03 (95% CI −0.14 to 0.20; P = 0.72)
Evidence hygiene
Memory test heterogeneity + high I²—treat as small overall effect with stronger older-adult exploratory signal, not a universal cognition stack.
Publication
Prokopidis K, et al. Nutr Rev. 2023 Mar 10;81(4):416-427. PMID 35984306.
Outcomes
- Effect Size (Cohen's d / SMD)0.29d (Cohen's d)
- Effect Size (Cohen's d / SMD)0.88d (Cohen's d)