Creatine supplementation decreases plasma lipid peroxidation markers and enhances anaerobic performance in rats

Abstract

Objective: The study was to investigate the effects of creatine (Cr) supplementation on oxidative stress markers and anaerobic performance in rats. Methods: Sixty-four rats (Wistar) were divided into two groups: C, anaerobic exercised group (n = 32) and Cr, anaerobic exercised group supplemented with creatine (n = 32). Cr supplementation consisted of the addition of 2% Cr monohydrate to the diet. After 28 days, the rats performed acute exercise (6 × 30 seconds of vertical jumps in the water with 30 seconds rest and 50% of total body weight load attached in the back). The animals were euthanized before (pre) and at 0, 2, and 6 hours (n = 8) after acute exercise. Results: Acute exercise induced an increase in plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), as well as increased total lipid hydroperoxides and AOPP in gastrocnemius muscle. Cr supplementation inhibited the formation of MDA and lipid hydroperoxides in plasma. However, the antioxidant action of Cr was observed only against AOPP in gastrocnemius muscle. Cr supplementation also increased (P < 0.05) anaerobic performance compared to the C group. Conclusion: Cr supplementation is able to inhibit the increase in plasma lipid peroxidation markers induced by high-intensity and short-duration exercise in rats; equivalent actions, however, were not observed fully in muscle tissue.