{"id":13838,"date":"2022-03-13T12:00:54","date_gmt":"2022-03-13T17:00:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gncholdings.wpengine.com\/learn\/beauty\/creatine-vs-protein-when-and-why-to-use-each\/"},"modified":"2026-02-03T15:55:35","modified_gmt":"2026-02-03T20:55:35","slug":"creatine-vs-protein","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/learn\/fitness\/creatine-vs-protein.html","title":{"rendered":"Creatine Vs. Protein: When And Why To Use Each"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"13838\" class=\"elementor elementor-13838\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-2d519054 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"2d519054\" data-element_type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-1677ccc\" data-id=\"1677ccc\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-25351a23 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"25351a23\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<style>\/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 30-04-2024 *\/\n.elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-stacked .elementor-drop-cap{background-color:#69727d;color:#fff}.elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-framed .elementor-drop-cap{color:#69727d;border:3px solid;background-color:transparent}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap{margin-top:8px}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap-letter{width:1em;height:1em}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap{float:left;text-align:center;line-height:1;font-size:50px}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap-letter{display:inline-block}<\/style>\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Protein and creatine aren\u2019t an either-or situation. If you want to fuel your muscle growth and your performance, your best bet is to take both. But, what is the difference between the two most popular bodybuilding supplements? Understanding what they do and when and why to take each one is the key to success. In this article we\u2019ll discuss the difference between protein and creatine and when (and how!) to take both to support muscle gains.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:450,&quot;335559740&quot;:420}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p aria-level=\"3\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">CREATINE: THE ENERGY MASTER<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Creatine is made up of amino acids\u2014methionine, arginine and glycine\u2014and occurs naturally in our bodies. It also helps form adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a compound that releases energy used for muscle contractions. So, what does creatine do? Because it plays a key role in making ATP, creatine supports immediate energy production during exercise, which boosts your overall athletic performance. Clinical studies have shown that <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/muscle-builders\/creatine\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">creatine supplements<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> used in conjunction with the appropriate training regimen can improve athletes\u2019 vertical jumps and weightlifting and sprinting abilities. Creatine supplementation has also been shown to increase muscle strength and muscle mass when used in conjunction with resistance training. GNC offers the top <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/muscle-builders\/creatine\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">creatine supplements<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> to help fuel your goals.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:450,&quot;335559740&quot;:420}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/muscle-builders\/creatine\/\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-15563\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Screenshot-61.png\" alt=\"creatine supplements\" width=\"779\" height=\"329\" \/><\/a><\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p><p aria-level=\"3\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">WHEN TO TAKE CREATINE<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Creatine monohydrate is one of the many types of creatine you\u2019ll see on the market today \u2013 it\u2019s also the most popular! <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/muscle-builders\/creatine\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Creatine monohydrate<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> is the easiest to find and purchase in a single ingredient, making cost effective. You can also find creatine monohydrate in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/performance\/pre-workout-supplements\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">pre-workout<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> powders or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/performance\/intra-post-workout-recovery-supplements\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">post-workout recovery<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> products like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/protein\/protein-powder\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">protein powder<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/protein-powder\/mass-gainers\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">mass gainers<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">. Other creatines to keep a lookout for on shelves and product labels are creatine HCl, creatine anhydrous, and micronized creatine<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span> <span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:450,&quot;335559740&quot;:420}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">When to take creatine is up to you! Before a workout, after or any time of day. The most important thing about creatine supplementation are that you\u2019re consistent and use them daily \u2013 even on rest days.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:450,&quot;335559740&quot;:420}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p aria-level=\"3\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">PROTEIN: THE MUSCLE BUILDER<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">To gradually reach optimal creatine levels, a dose of at least three grams of creatine monohydrate per day for at least four weeks is recommended. As far as timing, you have some leeway. You\u2019ll reap the benefits of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/muscle-builders\/creatine\/\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">creatine<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> whether you take that three-gram dosage before, during or after exercise. So, pick whichever option works for you\u2014just make sure to supplement daily for optimal results. If you\u2019re wondering how do I For a more in-depth guide to creatine dosing, our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/learn\/fitness\/the-ultimate-guide-to-creatine-dosing.html\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Ultimate Guide to Creatine Dosing<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> is a great resource.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:450,&quot;335559740&quot;:420}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">If you want to get ripped, protein is crucial. Every time you push through punishing reps and increasingly heavier loads of weight, you put your muscles through the ringer. To see the benefits of all that hard work, they need to be able to properly recover. After a workout, when your muscle tissues are broken down, it\u2019s critical to provide your body with what it needs to repair and replenish muscle protein if you want to enhance muscle mass. Supplying your muscles with the right amount of protein before and after working out ensures this vital process can happen efficiently and effectively.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:450,&quot;335559740&quot;:420}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">There are a variety of protein powder muscle-building supplements, including dairy-based varieties (like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/protein-powder\/whey-protein\/)\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">whey protein powder<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/protein-powder\/casein-protein\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">casein protein powder <\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0or milk protein powders), novel sources (like eggs and beef) or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/protein-powder\/plant-based-protein\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">plant-based<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> powders (like chickpeas, quinoa or soy). <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:450,&quot;335559740&quot;:420}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Whey protein is considered a fast-digesting protein, meaning the amino acids it contains are quickly absorbed in the blood stream. Casein protein on the other hand is digested more slowly, so it\u2019s ideal in the evening. Consuming casein before bed will provide your body with a steady stream of beneficial nutrients throughout the night while you rest.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:450,&quot;335559740&quot;:420}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Protein powders typically come in three forms: isolate proteins, which have been purified to remove most everything other than the actual protein source; concentrates, which contain mostly protein, with some carbs, fats and other nutrients; and protein blends, which consist of protein from various sources. Read more about the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/learn\/diet\/types-of-protein.html\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">types of protein<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> or get the scoop on our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/learn\/fitness\/best-protein-powders.html\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Best Protein Powders<\/span><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">to fuel your goals<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span> <span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:450,&quot;335559740&quot;:420}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">WHEY PROTEIN AND <\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">CREATINE<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:450,&quot;335559740&quot;:420}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Creatine is a non-protein amino acid that supports pathways to stimulate muscle growth. Whey protein, for example, contains all nine essential amino acids including the three <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/muscle-builders\/amino-acids\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">branched-chain amino acids<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> (BCAAs) that are essential for muscle growth and repair. If you\u2019re interested in learning more about BCAA\u2019s and their role in muscle support, check out the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/learn\/fitness\/what-are-bcaas.html\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">What are BCAAs<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"none\">article. Find all three products in the links below.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:450,&quot;335559740&quot;:420}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/protein\/protein-powder\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-15568\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Screenshot-65.png\" alt=\"protein powders\" width=\"778\" height=\"324\" \/><\/a><\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p><h3>When To Take Protein<\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">No matter which protein you choose, if you\u2019re looking to bulk up, timing is everything. You should eat small amounts of protein throughout the day, but consuming high-quality whey protein immediately after exercise is the most effective way to ensure your body will have the resources needed to repair and rebuild muscle. When you don\u2019t get enough, your body taps into its protein stores for fuel and muscle repair, which can inhibit your athletic goals<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:450,&quot;335559740&quot;:420}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Read More: <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/learn\/fitness\/best-mass-gainers-top-5-for-bulking-up.html\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Best Mass Gainers: Top 5 For Bulking Up<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:450,&quot;335559740&quot;:420}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Protein and creatine aren\u2019t an either-or situation. If you want to fuel your muscle growth and your performance, your best bet is to take both. But, what is the difference between the two most popular bodybuilding supplements? Understanding what they do and when and why to take each one is the key to success.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":27,"featured_media":20628,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"default","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[1271],"tags":[2096],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v22.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Creatine Vs. Protein: When And Why To Use Each | GNC<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Protein and creatine aren\u2019t an either-or situation. But, what is the difference between the two most popular bodybuilding supplements? Find out!\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gnc.com\/learn\/fitness\/creatine-vs-protein.html\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Creatine Vs. Protein: When And Why To Use Each | GNC\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Protein and creatine aren\u2019t an either-or situation. But, what is the difference between the two most popular bodybuilding supplements? 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