Buffered Creatine (Kre-Alkalyn)
An alkalized creatine powder marketed to resist conversion to creatinine in acidic environments, though performance data remains similar to monohydrate.
Manufacturers adjust pH with alkaline powders before encapsulating creatine, aiming to minimize stomach acidity. The form is often sold in capsules for convenience.
Quick facts
- Claimed benefit
- Less stomach discomfort
- Form factor
- Capsules or pH-adjusted powder
- Evidence status
- Limited independent trials
Who it helps most
- People averse to mixing powders
- Users who believe they convert creatine to creatinine quickly
- Athletes seeking capsule dosing
Limitations & cautions
- Higher cost per effective gram
- No conclusive proof of superior stability
- Capsules increase number of pills per day
Research highlights
Outcome parity with monohydrate
Healthline and Maxinutrition both cite small-scale comparisons showing no statistically significant difference in strength or lean mass when dosing is matched.
Sources: Healthline – 6 Types of Creatine, Maxinutrition – Types of Creatine
Understanding the buffering claim
Creatine is already stable through gastric transit for most people. Buffered formulas attempt to raise pH, but the stomach quickly re-acidifies contents, limiting the practical impact of the buffering agents.
When buffering might help
Capsule delivery can be useful for travel or for users who experience reflux drinking alkaline powders. However, the same result can often be achieved by splitting monohydrate doses between meals.
Due diligence
Seek brands with third-party testing because the added minerals sometimes mask lower creatine content. Capsules should list milligrams per capsule clearly.
Practical dosing
1.5–3 g daily, split into two capsule servings with meals.
Sourcing checklist
Verify certificates of analysis to confirm actual creatine content per serving.
Related creatine types
Compare with other creatine formats to find the best fit for your needs.
View all creatine types →Sources
Healthline – 6 Types of Creatine
Outlines efficacy comparisons.
Visit sourceMaxinutrition – Types of Creatine
Discusses buffered products and marketing claims.
Visit source