Creatine for Sleep Deprived Cognition
Not Just for Muscles
The brain is the most metabolically expensive organ, consuming 20% of the body's energy. Like muscles, neurons rely on ATP for firing. When cognitive demand is high (or sleep is low), ATP stores deplete.
The Sleep Deprivation Buffer
Creatine supplementation increases brain Phosphocreatine (PCr) stores. This acts as a "backup battery," rapidly recycling ADP back into ATP. Clinical studies (McMorris et al.) have shown that creatine supplementation significantly preserves logical reasoning and working memory during states of sleep deprivation and mild hypoxia.
Dosing Strategy
The brain has a "blood-brain barrier" transport limit for creatine. Unlike muscles, you cannot "load" it quickly. Consistent daily intake of 5g Creatine Monohydrate for 2-4 weeks is required to saturate cerebral stores.
Clinical Context
This compound is frequently utilized in the Sleep Optimization and Cortisol Management protocols.
View Protocol