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image of Dietary Creatine Intake and Serum Leptin Levels: A Population-Based Analysis

Abstract

Introduction

Creatine is a semi-essential nutrient involved in cellular bioenergetics. While its effects on energy metabolism are well established, its potential influence on appetite regulation remains unclear. This study examined the association between dietary creatine intake and serum leptin levels in a nationally representative U.S. population.

Methods

Data were analyzed from NHANES III (1988–1994), including 6,415 participants who completed a 24-hour dietary recall and had fasting serum leptin levels measured. Creatine intake (g/day) was estimated based on established food composition values. Serum leptin was quantified radioimmunoassay. Multivariate regression models adjusted for age, gender, and body mass index (BMI) were used to assess associations.

Results

The mean creatine intake was 0.91 ± 0.87 g/day, and the mean serum leptin concentration was 12.6 ± 11.8 µg/L. A significant inverse association was observed between dietary creatine intake and serum leptin levels (B = -1.586, < 0.01), independent of age, gender, and BMI.

Discussion

Higher dietary creatine intake is associated with lower circulating leptin concentrations, suggesting a potential role for creatine in the regulation of long-term energy balance through mechanisms that extend beyond its established effects on muscle metabolism.

Conclusion

Higher dietary creatine intake is associated with lower serum leptin levels, suggesting a potential role for creatine in appetite regulation. Further research is needed to clarify underlying mechanisms and causality.

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2025-07-21
2025-09-29

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/content/journals/cnf/10.2174/0115734013395816250715145327
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Dietary Creatine Intake and Serum Leptin Levels: A Population-Based Analysis
Bentham Science Publishers ; https://doi.org/10.2174/0115734013395816250715145327
/content/journals/cnf/10.2174/0115734013395816250715145327
/content/journals/cnf/10.2174/0115734013395816250715145327
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  • Article Type:     Research Article
Keywords: dietary creatine ; Creatine ; leptin ; appetite regulation ; regression ; adenosine triphosphate

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