In this episode of The Human Upgrade, Host Dave Asprey explores why creatine is one of the most powerful yet misunderstood tools in biohacking and human performance. You’ll learn how this simple compound supports brain optimization, mitochondrial function, neuroplasticity, and even emotional resilience—far beyond just muscle gains. Dave unpacks the real science behind creatine’s effects on memory, sleep, mood, and longevity, plus the smartest ways to dose, stack, and absorb it for maximum results. He also shares cutting-edge insights into creatine forms like GAA, and why vegetarians, women, and high-performers may need it the most.
Creatine isn’t just for bodybuilders. It’s one of the most overlooked, science-backed nootropics for brain optimization, neuroplasticity, mitochondrial energy, and total human performance. This episode reveals why creatine is a non-negotiable supplement for anyone serious about biohacking, longevity, and cognitive upgrades.
Host Dave Asprey breaks down the myths and truths about creatine, uncovering how it enhances memory, supports your mitochondria, regulates mood, strengthens bones and heart function, and even aids fetal brain development during pregnancy. Drawing from decades of functional medicine, real-world biohacks, and new research featured in the Wall Street Journal, Dave explains how creatine works not only as a muscle booster but as a universal cellular fuel that supports brain benefits, memory improvement, and sleep optimization.
You’ll learn how to harness creatine for everything from mental performance and mood regulation to faster recovery and better metabolism. Dave covers creatine dosage and timing, how to use creatine loading versus maintenance protocols, and how to enhance creatine absorption by mixing it with hot water or pairing it with glucose and protein to leverage insulin-sensitive pathways.
He also shares next-level stacking strategies by combining creatine with caffeine (including Danger Coffee), beta-alanine, nitrates, and electrolytes to maximize both mental and physical results. Whether you’re using creatine for brain energy, sprint power, cold therapy performance, or cognitive resilience, this episode delivers practical tools you won’t hear anywhere else.
If you’re following a carnivore diet, in ketosis, experimenting with fasting, or just want to feel sharper and more energized, creatine fits right in. Dave also explores cutting-edge options like GAA creatine, creatine HCL, and intranasal delivery systems, along with key nutrient pairings like TMG and folinic acid to support methylation and avoid side effects. Plus, he explains why vegetarians and vegans may need creatine the most.
This is your complete guide to creatine brain benefits, mitochondrial support, memory enhancement, and smarter not harder living.
You’ll Learn:
Dave Asprey is a four-time New York Times bestselling author, founder of Bulletproof Coffee, and the father of biohacking. With over 1,000 interviews and 1 million monthly listeners, The Human Upgrade is the top podcast for people who want to take control of their biology, extend their longevity, and optimize every system in the body and mind. Each episode features cutting-edge insights in health, performance, neuroscience, supplements, nutrition, hacking, emotional intelligence, and conscious living.
Episodes are released every Tuesday and Thursday, where Dave asks the questions no one else dares and brings you real tools to become more resilient, aware, and high performing.
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A rapid-fire preview of why creatine is a game-changing tool for brain, body, and longevity.
Dave explains how creatine supports mitochondria, neuroplasticity, mood, memory, bone density, and long-term energy production.
Debunking outdated fears around kidney damage, bloating, and the myth that creatine is only for male bodybuilders.
How to dose, time, and stack creatine with protein, carbs, caffeine, and hot water for maximum absorption and performance.
Why creatine is critical for vegans, women, shift workers, students, athletes, older adults, and even during pregnancy.
Breaking down creatine monohydrate vs. HCL vs. GAA, plus tips for sourcing clean, effective, and well-absorbed forms.
A final summary of creatine’s five key benefits and Dave’s smarter not harder protocol for getting started.
Resources:
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