Does hot coffee instantly destroy creatine?
The chemistry discussed in the review does not support a simple rule that any contact with a warm drink instantly destroys creatine. Stability depends on several conditions, including time in solution. That also means laboratory stability information cannot guarantee the creatine content of every stored drink or recipe. [2]
Does caffeine cancel out creatine?
A systematic review of ten studies found mixed results. Creatine loading followed by an acute caffeine dose differed from taking caffeine throughout loading; some chronic co-use studies suggested interference, while others did not. These protocols do not justify saying caffeine always cancels creatine, or that every coffee recipe is equivalent. [3] [1]
What does the evidence say about storing a mixed drink?
Creatine stability in solution differs from stability as dry powder. The review discusses the influence of temperature, acidity and storage time, so an immediately consumed drink and one kept for a long period are different situations. Product instructions and the actual formulation matter when considering storage. [2]
Look a little closer
What are the limits of this evidence?
Each card separates the finding from the limits. The participants, formulation and duration are part of the answer.
Common questions, part II, 2025
Creatine and caffeine co-ingestion studies have mixed performance findings; timing evidence also has substantial limitations.
- Who
- Mixed populations and protocols in the reviewed literature
- Dose
- Varied creatine and caffeine regimens
- Duration
- Varied across studies
- Limits
- Narrative review. Co-ingestion studies do not directly test every coffee recipe, temperature or individual response. Authors disclose industry relationships.
Antonio et al., 2021
The reviewed studies do not support creatine causing fat gain; water changes and dosing need separate consideration.
- Who
- Mixed populations across the reviewed research
- Dose
- Varied; includes daily and loading protocols
- Duration
- Varied across studies
- Limits
- A narrative review, not one trial. Populations and methods differ. Several authors report supplement-industry relationships.
Which sources did we check?
- Part II. Common questions and misconceptions about creatine supplementation: what does the scientific evidence really show? ↗Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition · 2025 · Study details and limits
- Common questions and misconceptions about creatine supplementation: what does the scientific evidence really show? ↗Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition · 2021 · Study details and limits
- Interaction Between Caffeine and Creatine When Used as Concurrent Ergogenic Supplements: A Systematic Review ↗International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism · 2022 · Study details and limits