Yes, creatine can go bad if it’s expired. Creatine, like practically every other ingestible molecule, degrades with time. However, this only occurs if the creatine is not kept properly. Make sure you store it in a cool and dry place so that it does not break down.
Creatine’s Life Span
Creatine is a nitrogenous organic acid that helps to supply energy to cells, primarily muscle cells, during strenuous activity. It is found naturally in vertebrates and helps to recycle ATP, which is the body’s main source of energy.
Creatine usually lasts for about two years before it goes bad. However, several factors can affect how long it lasts.
- One factor is how you store it. If you store it in a cool, dry place, it will last longer than if you store it in a warm, humid place.
- Another factor is the type of creatine you have. There are different types of creatine, and some types last longer than others.
- The last factor is how often you use it. If you use it regularly, it will last longer than if you only use it occasionally.
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Tips to Prevent From Going Bad
If you want to make sure that your creatine doesn’t go bad, there are a few things that you can do. By following these tips, you can make sure that your creatine doesn’t go bad.
Store in a Cool & Dry Place
The first thing that you need to do is store it in a cool, dry place. Creatine is a powder and it can absorb moisture from the air. If it gets too wet, it can start to break down and go bad.
Store in a Tightly Sealed Container
The second thing that you need to do is store it in a tightly sealed container. This will keep the air out and prevent the creatine from going bad. Additionally, This will help to keep the creatine from getting too much oxygen, which can also cause it to break down.
Keep It Away From the Direct Sunlight
The third thing that you need to do is keep it away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can cause the creatine to break down and go bad. So, if you are going to store your creatine for a long time, make sure that you put it in a place where direct sunlight will not be hitting it.
Don’t Expose It to Extreme Temperatures
If you want to make sure that your creatine doesn’t go bad, make sure to avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures. This means that you shouldn’t store it in a place that is too hot or too cold. Room temperature is usually the best option.
Use a Desiccant Packet
Another way to keep your creatine from going bad is by using a desiccant packet. These packets are designed to absorb moisture from the air. By placing one of these packets in with your creatine, you can help to keep it dry and prevent it from going bad.
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Signs of Bad Creatine
There are several signs that you can look for to know if your creatine has gone bad.
Change of Color
One sign that your creatine has gone bad is if it changes color. Creatine is usually a white powder. If it starts to turn yellow or brown, this is a sign that it has gone bad and needs to be replaced.
The reason for this color change is because of the breakdown of the creatine molecules.
Change of Texture
Another sign that your creatine has gone bad is if it changes texture. If the powder starts to clump together or gets hard, this is a sign that it has gone bad and needs to be replaced.
This usually happens when the creatine has absorbed too much moisture from the air.
Strong Odor
The last sign that your creatine has gone bad is if it changes smell. Creatine usually doesn’t have a strong smell. If it starts to smell sour or like ammonia, this is a sign that it has gone bad and needs to be replaced.
This change in smell is usually due to the breakdown of the creatine molecules. When they break down, they release a gas that has a strong smell.
Sediment at the Bottom of the Container
Another sign that your creatine has gone bad is if there is sediment at the bottom of the container. If you notice a white powdery substance at the bottom of the container, this is a sign that the creatine has gone bad and needs to be replaced.
The reason for this is that when creatine breaks down, it forms a substance that is similar to powder.
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The Dangers of Consuming Bad Creatine
There are several dangers of consuming bad creatine. You should be aware of the expired date before buying or consuming any creatine.
- The first danger is that it can cause stomach upset. When creatine breaks down, it forms a substance that is similar to powder. If this powder gets into your stomach, it can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea.
- The second danger is that it can cause kidney damage. When the creatine breaks down, it releases a gas that has a strong smell. This gas can damage your kidneys if you consume too much of it.
- The third danger is that it can cause liver damage. The breakdown of the creatine molecules produces a substance that is toxic to your liver. If you consume too much of this substance, it can damage your liver.
- The fourth danger is that it can cause birth defects. If you are pregnant and consume bad creatine, it can damage the fetus and cause birth defects.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to be aware of the signs that your creatine has gone bad. If you notice any of these signs, make sure to replace the creatine. You should also be aware of the dangers of consuming bad creatine.
If you are pregnant or have a liver condition, make sure to consult your doctor before taking any creatine.
