If you’ve ever dismissed creatine as just another muscle-building supplement for bodybuilders and gym bros, here’s a wake-up call: science is rewriting that script. Although Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson may still be spiking it into his post-gym smoothies, a previously unexpected new population is on to creatine—middle-aged women, health-conscious enthusiasts, and even professionals seeking to enhance cognitive function. Ivanka Trump breezily discussed it in her smoothie regimen, and TikTok is filled with users raving about its mood and mental performance benefits but let's get past anecdote. What is the science really suggesting?What Is Creatine?Creatine is a naturally occurring substance, synthesized primarily by the liver, kidneys, and pancreas, and also produced in muscles and the brain. We also obtain trace amounts from animal foods like red meat and fish.The typical individual produces approximately one gram of creatine per day, but the optimal dose for maximum benefit is three to five grams daily—so most, particularly women (who tend to consume less meat), don't notice.Creatine's first and foremost function is to assist in the regeneration of ATP, the molecule behind everything from bicep curls to brain activity. Until recently, its fame did not extend beyond the doors of the gym. Today, however, scientists are learning it could have applications in cognitive health, mood stabilization, and even disease prevention.Cognitive and Mental Health Benefits of CreatinePerhaps one of the most persuasive discoveries in recent years is the effect of creatine on the brain.Creatine aids energy metabolism within the brain, which is essential in sustaining attention, memory, and emotional control—most especially during stress. A number of studies demonstrate that supplementation with creatine can decrease brain fog and fatigue and improve working memory.In one study, conducted by the University of Kansas Medical Center, creatine supplements were linked to enhanced executive function and memory in Alzheimer's patients. In another study, individuals with depression who received a supplement of creatine along with cognitive behavioral therapy were found to have improved more quickly than those receiving therapy alone.The link? Low levels of creatine have been correlated with decreased brain energy and neurotransmitter activity—factors that affect everything from mood to choice.Why Women Might Gain Even MoreNow comes the interesting part: women generally have lower creatine levels than men, both because they have less muscle mass and due to dietary habits. Studies show that hormonal changes—particularly during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause—might also influence how creatine is synthesized, transported, and stored.Menstruation and menopause, when estrogen levels are low, also make women susceptible to fluctuations in energy, muscle function, and mood. Creatine can level out these dips. It's also been found to lower muscle loss and help keep bones strong—something important for women as they grow older.In one 12-month trial, postmenopausal women who took creatine supplements maintained better bone mineral density than those who didn't.Early research also indicates that creatine may be involved in pregnancy complications. Evidence indicates that lower levels of maternal creatine are linked with increased stillbirth, premature birth, and reduced birth weight. Though supplementation is not yet routine or even proven safe, scientists are taking particular interest.Interestingly, researchers have also calculated how much creatine infants would require—about 7–8.4 mg a day based on age—even though breast milk contains only a small proportion of that amount.And then there's long COVID: women are more susceptible to it, and researchers think that variations in creatine metabolism could help explain why, in part. Since creatine helps with cellular energy, it could aid in alleviating fatigue and brain fog in long COVID patients.As cognitive and hormonal benefits are hogging the limelight, the traditional muscle benefits of creatine haven't disappeared.Creatine is a performance powerhouse for physical activity—particularly for short durations of high-intensity exercise. Research indicates it can enhance strength, endurance, and recovery, making it perfect not only for bodybuilders but also for anyone concerned with age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia). Approximately 5% to 16% of adults aged over 65 suffer from sarcopenia, and creatine has the potential to counteract this.It also increases intracellular water in muscle cells, which increases hydration and muscle mass. That's why other users become bloated—a normal but normally harmless side effect.How Much Creatine Is Enough?General health requires 3–5 grams daily according to most experts. Creatine monohydrate is still the standard: it's the most researched, most affordable, and most bioavailable variety.One scoop (roughly 5 grams) mixed into water or a smoothie is enough for most people. What matters most is consistency—it takes a few weeks for the body to fully saturate its creatine stores.When to take it? Research is still mixed. Some prefer post-workout, others in the morning. The key is regularity rather than timing.Is Creatine Safe for Everyone?For healthy adults in general, creatine is very safe when used as directed. But it's not suitable for everybody.It should be avoided by individuals with kidney disease or a history of kidney transplant. There are also problems for individuals who have bipolar disorder. Creatine is filtered through the kidneys, and in exceptional instances, has been connected to liver stress.It's not yet indicated in pregnancy or lactation for a lack of definitive safety studies. Always consult a healthcare professional before supplementation—particularly if you're on drugs or dealing with chronic illness.A just-released study that included 25,000 adults aged over 52 discovered a convincing association: each 0.09-gram boost in creatine consumption corresponded with a 14% reduced risk of cancer.While preliminary and not definitive, this contributes to a steadily expanding list of possible advantages, such as antioxidant activity, improved mitochondrial function, and even possible tumor-inhibiting effects in animal models.Creatine is experiencing a renaissance—and not only among jocks. With increasing evidence validating its cognitive function benefits, mental health benefits, bone mineral content benefits, and hormone regulation benefits, creatine is becoming an all-around staple beyond the weight room.It's not just about gaining muscle anymore. It's about fueling total-body vitality, brain resilience, and optimal long-term health.If you're a woman going through hormonal shifts, a senior looking to remain resilient, or anyone interested in brain wellness, creatine may be worth reconsideration.