Creatine Citrate
An acidified form combining creatine with citric acid to enhance solubility and pair with effervescent or RTD products while delivering modest ergogenic effects.
Creatine citrate dissolves more easily in fluid and provides a mild tart flavor. The citric acid component also participates in the Krebs cycle, though the ergogenic impact stems from creatine itself.
Quick facts
- Solubility
- Higher than monohydrate, lower than nitrate
- Use cases
- Effervescent drinks, endurance stacks
- Creatine yield
- ~40% creatine by weight
Who it helps most
- Athletes wanting flavored drink mixes
- People combining creatine with carbohydrate-electrolyte drinks
- Users sensitive to gritty textures
Limitations & cautions
- More expensive per gram of creatine
- Requires larger scoops to match 3 g creatine
- Limited direct head-to-head strength trials
Research highlights
Cardiovascular and endurance crossover
Healthline and Wellbeing Nutrition cite studies showing small benefits for endurance intervals, potentially because citrate pairs well with carbohydrate ingestion before training.
Sources: Healthline – 6 Types of Creatine, Wellbeing Nutrition – Types of Creatine
Formulation advantages
The acid pairing prevents clumping in flavored beverages and supports effervescent tablets. It is popular in ready-to-drink beverages that cannot keep monohydrate suspended.
Performance profile
Strength gains appear similar to monohydrate when equivalent creatine is provided, but the higher cost makes it better suited for users prioritizing mixability over budget.
Stacking tips
Combine with sodium and carbohydrates before high-intensity intervals to leverage both creatine and citric acid’s roles in cellular energy production.
Practical dosing
5–7 g powder to deliver ~3 g creatine, mixed in 12–16 oz water.
Sourcing checklist
Ensure labels specify grams of creatine base, not just total compound weight.
Related creatine types
Compare with other creatine formats to find the best fit for your needs.
Sources
Wellbeing Nutrition – Types of Creatine
Discusses flavored forms like citrate and effervescent powders.
Visit sourceHealthline – 6 Types of Creatine
Explains dosing considerations for citrate.
Visit source