What is Creatine?
Creatine is one of the most well-researched and effective supplements for increasing strength, muscle mass, and performance. It is a naturally occurring compound found in small amounts in foods like red meat and fish. However, supplementation ensures your muscles have a readily available energy source to power through high-intensity workouts.
The Gold Standard: Creatine Monohydrate
What is Creatine Monohydrate?
Creatine Monohydrate is the most widely used and studied form of creatine. It has been proven to increase muscle mass, improve exercise performance, and support cognitive function.
Benefits of Creatine Monohydrate:
Proven Effectiveness – Backed by hundreds of scientific studies.
Cost-Effective – Most affordable form of creatine.
Highly Bioavailable – Easily absorbed by the body.
Muscle Hydration – Helps pull water into muscle cells for a fuller look.
ATP Production – Enhances energy output during intense training.
Creatine HCL: A Newer Alternative
What is Creatine HCL?
Creatine Hydrochloride (Creatine HCL) is a more recent form of creatine that binds the molecule to hydrochloric acid. This formulation claims to offer better solubility and absorption compared to monohydrate.
Benefits of Creatine HCL:
- Increased Solubility – Dissolves more easily in water.
- Reduced Bloating – Some users report less water retention compared to monohydrate.
- Smaller Doses Required – Due to enhanced absorption, lower doses may be effective.
Creatine Monohydrate vs. Creatine HCL: Which One Should You Choose?
Effectiveness
Both forms support strength and performance, but Creatine Monohydrate has decades of research backing its effectiveness, while HCL has limited studies in comparison.

Absorption & Solubility
Creatine HCL is more soluble in water, which may make it easier to digest for those who experience bloating with monohydrate. However, monohydrate’s absorption can be improved by simply taking it with food or warm water.
Creatine Monohydrate is the most widely used and studied form of creatine. It has been proven to increase muscle mass, improve exercise performance, and support cognitive function.
Cost Comparison
Creatine Monohydrate is significantly cheaper and available in larger quantities, making it the better option for budget-conscious consumers.
Dosage
Creatine Monohydrate: Standard dose is 3-5g per day.
Creatine HCL: Due to better solubility, a smaller dose of 1-2g per day is typically recommended.
Which One is Right for You?
If you want the most researched and cost-effective option → Go with Creatine Monohydrate.
If you have digestive issues with monohydrate → Try Creatine HCL.
If budget is a concern → Creatine Monohydrate is the better value.
Final Verdict
Creatine Monohydrate remains the gold standard due to its overwhelming scientific support, affordability, and effectiveness. While Creatine HCL may offer benefits for those with digestive sensitivities, it lacks the extensive research backing monohydrate.
Where to Buy High-Quality Creatine
When choosing a creatine supplement, opt for 100% pure, lab-tested Creatine Monohydrate from a trusted brand. Look for third-party testing certifications to ensure quality and purity.
Related Articles:
Best Time to Take Creatine for Maximum Absorption
- 5 Tips for faster recovery
- Unlocking the Power of Glutamine for Performance Athletes and Bodybuilders
- Boost Your Athletic Performance with These Effective Workout Tips
FAQ
1. Does Creatine Cause Water Retention? Yes, but primarily inside muscle cells, which enhances muscle fullness and strength.
2. Can I Mix Creatine with Protein? Yes! Creatine and protein work synergistically to support muscle growth.
3. Should I Cycle Creatine? No, cycling is unnecessary as long as you take the recommended daily dose.
4. Is Creatine Safe? Yes, extensive research confirms creatine is safe for long-term use.
By incorporating Creatine Monohydrate into your routine, you’ll experience enhanced performance, faster recovery, and improved strength—all without breaking the bank!
-Jon Klipstein
"Before launching our Creatine products, I had the same questions as we went back and forth on what would be the best source of Creatine to offer our customer base. After lengthy R&D, plus internal research we made a decision based on what we felt would be best for our users. This blog is the high level overview of our findings."
Featured product







Pickup available at 11880 W. President Dr. Suite D
Usually ready in 24 hours

Micronized Creatine Monohydrate
100 serving / Healing Potion
11880 W. President Dr. Suite D
11880 W President Dr
Suite D
Boise ID 83713
United States
PRODUCT DETAILS
100 servings per container |
|
Increased muscle and strength |
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improved recovery |
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could support brain health |
How do you choose the right Creatine Monohydrate?
1: While Creatine Monohydrate is the most popular version, there are differences in Creatine Monohydrate. If you are worried about stomach sensitivity, we recommend taking a Micronized Creatine Monohydrate. Micronized meaning it has been broken down into smaller particles to improve solubility.
2: Is 3rd Party testing important to you? Are you a drug tested athlete, or concerned about cross contaminents making their way into your products? The only way to ensure you are getting exactly what is on the label, without any traces of potential banned ingredients is to choose a product that is 3rd party tested.
3: How do you want to take your creatine? Stack it with your preworkout or EAAs? Then a non-flavored one would be a great opton. If you want to take Creatine by itself, we recommend a flavored version.

Video
Did you know you can now get Flavored Creatine through UXO Supplements?
With the increased popularity and ever evolving studies on the benefits of Creatine, we decided to give you options. With the unflavored version, you need to be able to mix it with something to mask the bitterness of the raw ingredient. Now you can take Creatine by itself with one of our flavored versions. More will be coming as we continue to grow.
Creatine Monohydrate Pros and Cons
CONS |
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Not as soluble as HCL |
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Causes GI Distress with a small % of population |
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Electrolytes are a crucial component of human physiology, as they play a vital role in maintaining proper hydration levels and regulating bodily functions. For athletes, electrolytes are particularly important, as they can have a significant impact on performance in the gym. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of electrolytes for athletes and how they can help improve gym performance.
Firstly, it’s important to understand what electrolytes are and why they are so important. Electrolytes are minerals that carry an electric charge and are essential for various bodily functions, including regulating fluid balance, maintaining proper nerve and muscle function, and supporting optimal cardiovascular function. The most common electrolytes in the human body are sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and chloride.
When we exercise, we lose fluids and electrolytes through sweating. This loss can have a significant impact on athletic performance, as it can lead to dehydration and an electrolyte imbalance. Dehydration can cause a variety of negative effects, such as decreased muscle strength, reduced endurance, and impaired cognitive function. Electrolyte imbalances can cause similar effects, as they can disrupt nerve and muscle function, leading to muscle cramps, fatigue, and other symptoms.
By replenishing lost electrolytes during and after exercise, athletes can improve their performance in the gym. Here are some of the ways electrolytes can benefit athletes:
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Hydration: As we mentioned earlier, electrolytes play a crucial role in regulating fluid balance. When we lose fluids through sweating, we also lose electrolytes. By consuming an electrolyte-rich drink or supplement during and after exercise, athletes can help replenish lost fluids and maintain proper hydration levels. This, in turn, can improve endurance, reduce fatigue, and enhance overall athletic performance.
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Muscle function: Electrolytes are essential for proper nerve and muscle function. When we exercise, our muscles require a steady supply of electrolytes to function properly. By replenishing lost electrolytes, athletes can improve their muscle function and reduce the risk of muscle cramps and other issues.
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Recovery: Proper electrolyte intake can also aid in post-workout recovery. After exercise, the body needs to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes to repair and rebuild muscle tissue. Consuming an electrolyte-rich drink or supplement can help speed up this process, leading to faster recovery times and improved overall performance.
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Endurance: Finally, electrolytes can also improve endurance and help athletes push harder during workouts. By maintaining proper hydration levels and replenishing lost electrolytes, athletes can reduce fatigue and maintain energy levels for longer periods, leading to better performance and improved results.
In conclusion, electrolytes are a crucial component of athletic performance, and athletes can benefit greatly from replenishing lost electrolytes during and after exercise. By maintaining proper hydration levels, supporting muscle function, aiding in post-workout recovery, and improving endurance, electrolytes can help athletes perform at their best in the gym. So, whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting, consider incorporating electrolytes into your workout routine to take your performance to the next level.
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