Effect of creatine supplementation and sleep deprivation on mood, cortisol, and cognition
McMorris, Harris, Swain, Corbett, Collard, Dyson, Dye, Hodgson & Draper (2006) · Psychopharmacology
Topics: Sleep & Fatigue, Brain & Cognition, Mood & Mental Health
- Study type: Randomized trial
- Population: Healthy adults undergoing sleep deprivation
- Dose: 20 g/day loading
- Duration: 7 days plus 24h wakefulness
- Published: 2006
What the study found
An earlier sleep-deprivation study showing creatine cushioned the decline in mood and cognitive performance caused by 24 hours without sleep, helping the brain hold its output when energy demand spikes.
Key findings
- Reduced the drop in mood and cognitive performance during sleep deprivation.
- Effects concentrated on tasks with high cognitive load.
- Complements later work showing acute brain-energy benefits.
The practical takeaway
When you're running on no sleep, creatine may help preserve mental performance — but it's no substitute for rest.