Creatine and Cognitive Function: Why Stronger Science Matters for Health Claims

*Creatine and Cognitive Function: Why Stronger Science Matters for Health Claims*
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recently evaluated a health claim application for creatine and its potential to enhance cognitive function.
The submission included 21 human intervention trials, but EFSA’s scientific panel identified significant methodological flaws in many of them.
Key issues included a lack of proper randomization, weak control groups, and inconsistent or incomplete data reporting. While two studies suggested acute improvements in working memory and response inhibition at high doses (20 g/day for 5–7 days), these effects were not reproduced at lower doses (2.2–14 g/day) or with chronic supplementation. Studies conducted in stress-induced environments or diseased populations also failed to yield consistent or meaningful results.
EFSA further noted the lack of support for the mechanism of action. The applicant was unable to present a clearly defined molecular pathway linking creatine to cognitive function.
As a result, the Panel concluded there was no established cause-and-effect relationship between creatine intake and improved cognition.
This case underlines a key principle in the evaluation of health claims: even ingredients with some scientific backing will not succeed without high-quality, replicable evidence. EFSA’s decision reinforces the need for trials that are rigorously designed, including well-defined endpoints, robust statistical analysis, and evidence of effect across diverse populations and settings.
Success in EFSA health claim approval hinges on clinical excellence and transparency. In our practice, we emphasize:
• Clinically meaningful RCT designs with clearly defined endpoints
• Stratified randomization to reduce bias
• Multi-centre sites to ensure broader applicability and reproducibility
• Pre-registered protocols and EFSA-aligned statistical methodologies
• Full transparency of data, including neutral or negative outcomes
Reach out to us for more information: connect@vediclifesciences.com
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