Arnold Schwarzenegger is an advocate for healthy living, consistently sharing new ways to not only improve physical well-being but also enhance longevity. In a recent Arnold’s Pump Club newsletter, Schwarzenegger discusses how creatine is a better option to help combat sleep deprivation in the long run, over alternatives such as coffee.
“When you don’t get enough rest, coffee isn’t the only—or even necessarily the best—option for keeping you sharp the next day.”
From seven-time Mr. Olympia champion and movie star to politician, Arnold Schwarzenegger has always been a powerhouse destined for greatness. However, to achieve his impressive portfolio of accomplishments, Schwarzenegger had to hone both his mind and body.
Following a “don’t think, just do” way of thinking, Arnold Schwarzenegger works out incessantly. Even at 76 years old, the ‘Austrian Oak’ admitted to being addicted to the gym, maintaining his figure by biking and lifting weights every day.
In addition to constantly staying active, Arnold Schwarzenegger has maintained a mostly vegan diet which helps keep his blood pressure regulated, though he balances that with a juicy steak from time to time. He also increases the amount of protein he takes in by supplementing with beans, lentils, and chickpeas.
Another pivotal role in Arnold Schwarzenegger’s healthy routine includes getting ample amounts of rest. Schwarzenegger has emphasized the importance of sleep on several occasions, believing that it helps with shedding fat and increases weight loss.
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Arnold Schwarzenegger Reveals Creatine As A Way To Combat Sleep Deprivation
Unfortunately, life happens and getting eight hours of shut-eye can be easier said than done. Thankfully, Arnold Schwarzenegger recently shared in an Arnold’s Pump Club newsletter how to get a healthy pick-me-up that not only helps with fatigue but also with overall cognition.
“A new study found that a single dose of creatine can keep your brain functioning at a high level even when you’re sleep-deprived.”
“In the study, participants were forced to get inadequate sleep for two nights and perform cognitive tasks. Those who took a placebo experienced what you would expect — crashing performance and a brain that processed as quickly as dial-up internet.”
“However, those who took creatine improved cognitive performance and experienced less fatigue. Creatine also appeared to sustain higher levels of brain energy, suggesting that sleep deprivation didn’t have the normal harmful consequences.”
Schwarzenegger shares that although it is recommended to use the supplement for about a month to see optimal results, this study still showed increases in brain function just after two days.
“The study was notable not just because of the impact but because of the immediate benefits. Most studies suggest taking creatine for about a month to see the benefits. However, this showed benefits in just two nights.”
For clarification, Arnold Schwarzenegger reveals how much creatine the participants took, however, he recommends those new to the supplement should begin with about three to ten grams and work their way up.
“Research suggests you need 3 to 5 grams daily for muscular benefits, whereas prior research suggests you need about 10 grams daily for cognitive benefits. In this study, participants took about 20 grams of creatine per night to offset the sleep deprivation. This is within a safe zone, but that amount could cause GI issues (although no participants listed stomach issues as a problem).”
“If you’re new to creatine, research suggests starting with three to ten grams daily. But if you are low on sleep, the study suggests taking a little more will stay sharp during the day and energize your brain.”
This isn’t the first time that Schwarzenegger has discussed the benefits of taking creatine. Previously he broke down how the supplement helps intelligence and memory by fighting off neurodegenerative diseases and helping add strength when working out. Schwarzenegger made sure to inform his fans that the type of creatine is important, stating that it is creatine monohydrate that is most effective.
Bodybuilding great Jay Cutler has also recommended the supplement claiming that you always want to be at your best. Cutler explained how taking creatine will help give you an added boost while working out allowing you to push a little harder.
With how popular creatine has become, hearing from Arnold Schwarzenegger on the matter only continues to vouch for the benefits it provides. Considering Schwarzenegger’s illustrious bodybuilding career, his insights into nutrition and supplementation are second to none.
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