Why we created True Creatine+

 

As the Head of Innovation at Ancient + Brave, my work is not just about creating products - it's about forging a deeper connection between ancient wisdom and modern science, delivering solutions that resonate with our innate quest for vitality and longevity. But sometimes, the most profound innovations arise from a personal journey, a rediscovery of something that has been long misunderstood or overlooked. This is the story behind True Creatine+. 

Welcome to your new ritual - True Creatine+: An expertly formulated blend to ignite your inner potential and power your brave lifestyle.

From Scepticism To Rediscovery 

Creatine is a name that has, for many, become synonymous with the gritty, sweat-drenched world of 1980s gyms—a supplement revered by muscle-bound “bros” chasing the next rep. Like many, I held onto this connotation, viewing creatine as something far removed from my own health rituals. It was a product for those obsessed with bulging biceps, not for someone like me, who despite loving a good gym session, seeks balanced ways to move my body, support my longevity, and adopt a holistic approach to well-being.

As a science geek, I am always reading about developments in health and wellness. As I delved deeper into the science of this long-studied ingredient, I began to uncover a different side of creatine - a side that had been overshadowed by its gym-centric reputation. What I found was not just a supplement for bodybuilders, but a powerful, multifaceted nutrient that plays a crucial role in brain health, cognitive function, energy metabolism, and even longevity. This was the creatine I had never met before, and as a working mum and busy professional it changed everything for me.

As I integrated creatine into my daily ritual, I experienced benefits that went far beyond the physical. My energy levels stabilised, my mental clarity improved, and I felt a renewed sense of strength not only in the gym but in all areas of life. This was not about building muscle—it was about building resilience, in both body and mind and powering a brave lifestyle.

I knew then that I had to share this rediscovery with others, but in a way that aligned with our values at Ancient + Brave - honouring the past, innovating for the future, and empowering individuals to live bravely.

The Science And Synergy Of True Creatine+

We can think of creatine as a spark plug to energise your high-energy-demanding cells like muscle cells.  When our cells need energy, they use the primary cellular energy currency of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP stores are limited and can be depleted in seconds. Creatine helps our cells rapidly regenerate ATP, allowing our body to maintain high performance for longer periods.  By increasing the availability of ATP, creatine improves strength, power, and overall exercise performance.  It also supports our muscle mass, which is key to healthy ageing (1). 

Creatine is not only important for muscle cells, but all energy-intensive cells. For example, the brain requires a significant amount of energy to function optimally, especially during tasks that demand intense concentration or cognitive effort. Creatine supports brain health by increasing the availability of ATP in brain cells, improving mental clarity, memory, and cognitive performance. Studies have shown that creatine supplementation can help enhance cognitive function in stressful situations, reduce mental fatigue, and support overall brain health, particularly as we age (2).

Creatine's role in energy production extends to all cells in the body, making it a valuable ally in combating the effects of fatigue and ageing. By supporting cellular energy metabolism, creatine helps maintain the function of organs and tissues as we age, contributing to overall vitality and longevity. Its antioxidant properties also help reduce oxidative stress, a key factor in the ageing process. Creatine may be particularly beneficial for women going through menopause, a time when natural creatine levels tend to decline (3). This makes it the perfect addition to your collagen ritual.

In creating True Creatine+ we didn’t just stop at the powerful benefits of creatine. We sought to elevate your new daily ritual with a carefully curated blend of taurine, magnesium, and vitamin D—nutrients that, when combined with creatine, work synergistically to power whole body health.

Taurine, an amino acid with potent antioxidant properties, supports energy production at the cellular level while safeguarding cells from oxidative damage (4). Recently, taurine has also gained recognition as a key compound in promoting longevity (5). When paired with creatine, taurine enhances energy metabolism, ensuring that your cells—whether in your muscles or brain, immune system or otherwise—operate at their peak. This combination supports not only your physical performance but also your long-term health (6).

Magnesium is often referred to as the "master mineral" because it plays a critical role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including those that regulate muscle and nerve function, energy levels and metabolism. In the context of True Creatine+, we have included a higher bioavailable form of magnesium naturally derived from seawater. Magnesium is indispensable for supporting ATP production - the very energy currency that creatine helps replenish. By including magnesium, we ensure that your body has the energy it needs to perform throughout the day, while also aiding in relaxation and recovery, making it an ideal nutrient to take daily.

Vitamin D is essential for bone health, muscle function, immune support, and overall well-being. It’s a nutrient many of us are deficient in, particularly during the darker months when sunlight is scarce. Vitamin D enhances the effectiveness of creatine and works together with magnesium for conversion into the active form. 

A Ritual To Power a Brave Lifestyle 

True Creatine+ is more than just a supplement; it’s a daily commitment to your health - a ritual that honours both ancient wisdom and modern science, equipping you for the physical and mental demands of modern life. By combining creatine with taurine, magnesium, and vitamin D, we’ve created a blend that not only supports your physical performance but also enhances cognitive function, promotes recovery, and supports long-term health and resilience.

Taking True Creatine+ daily is an act of self-care, a moment to connect with your body’s needs and support its complex systems. This isn’t just about adding supplements to your day; it’s about integrating powerful, synergistic nutrients into your life, ensuring that you have the energy, strength, and clarity to live bravely and face whatever challenges come your way.

 

References

1. Butts J, Jacobs B, Silvis M. Creatine Use in Sports. Sports Health: A Multidisciplinary Approach. 10(1):31-4, 2018
2. Forbes SC, Cordingley DM, Cornish SM, Gualano B, Roschel H, Ostojic SM, Rawson ES, Roy BD, Prokopidis K, Giannos P, Candow DG. Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Brain Function and Health. Nutrients. 2022 Feb 22;14(5):921. doi: 10.3390/nu14050921. PMID: 35267907; PMCID: PMC8912287.
3. Smith-Ryan AE, Cabre HE, Eckerson JM, Candow DG. Creatine Supplementation in Women's Health: A Lifespan Perspective. Nutrients. 2021 Mar 8;13(3):877. doi: 10.3390/nu13030877. PMID: 33800439; PMCID: PMC7998865.
4. Lourenço R, Camilo ME. Taurine: a conditionally essential amino acid in humans? An overview in health and disease. Nutr Hosp. 2002 Nov-Dec;17(6):262-70. PMID: 12514918.
5. Santulli G, Kansakar U, Varzideh F, Mone P, Jankauskas SS, Lombardi A. Functional Role of Taurine in Aging and Cardiovascular Health: An Updated Overview. Nutrients. 2023 Sep 30;15(19):4236. doi: 10.3390/nu15194236. PMID: 37836520; PMCID: PMC10574552.
6. Singh P ey al., Taurine deficiency as a driver of ageing. Science. 2023 Jun 9;380(6649):eabn9257. doi: 10.1126/science.abn9257. Epub 2023 Jun 9. PMID: 37289866; PMCID: PMC10630957.