====== Creatine ======
Creatine is one of the most highly scrutinized workout supplement on the market, with over 700 unique scientific papers published on it(([[https://examine.com/supplements/creatine/|Examine.com]])).

One of the biggest benefits to creatine supplementation, particularly for beard growth, is its ability to increase testosterone((Effect of creatine and beta-alanine supplementation on performance and endocrine responses in strength/power athletes|[[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17136944]])) and [[:dht|dihydrotestosterone]], the androgens responsible for facial hair growth and maturation. {{ youtube>VGlZkmTkMoI?small}}

One of the most popularly referenced studies regarding this is a 2009 study done by the
Department of Physiological Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa.

<blockquote>**RESULTS:**
After 7 days of creatine loading, or a further 14 days of creatine maintenance dose, serum T levels did not change. However, <wrap hi>levels of DHT increased by 56% after 7 days of creatine loading and remained 40% above baseline after 14 days maintenance</wrap> (P < 0.001). The ratio of DHT:T also increased by 36% after 7 days creatine supplementation and remained elevated by 22% after the maintenance dose (P < 0.01).

<cite>Department of Physiological Sciences, Stellenbosch University((Three weeks of creatine monohydrate supplementation affects dihydrotestosterone to testosterone ratio in college-aged rugby players. | [[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19741313]]))</cite></blockquote>