Can You Mix Creatine with Protein Powder?
Are you wondering if you can mix creatine with protein powder? Discover how to safely add creatine and protein powder to your diet.
Mixing Creatine and Protein Powder
What Is Creatine?
Creatine is an organic compound found in muscle cells.
It helps to provide energy during high-intensity exercise and muscle contraction.
Creatine is synthesized from amino acids (the building blocks of protein) in the liver and kidneys and transported to the muscles where it is stored as phosphocreatine.
Supplementation with creatine has been shown to increase muscle size, strength, and power, making it common practice among athletes and bodybuilders.
It is also used as a treatment for certain medical conditions like muscular dystrophy and heart failure.
Creatine supplements come in a variety of forms, including powders, capsules, and liquids.
And while creatine supplementation is generally considered safe, some people may experience side effects, especially if they take high doses or use it for long periods of time.
Common side effects of creatine supplementation include:
- Gastrointestinal issues: Many people experience bloating, gas, diarrhea, or other digestive issues when taking creatine.
- Dehydration: Creatine can cause your muscles to retain water, which can lead to dehydration.
- Muscle cramps: Some people experience muscle cramps when taking creatine.
To minimize the risk of side effects, it is recommended to drink plenty of fluids and to avoid taking high doses for prolonged periods of time.
It is also recommended to use a creatine supplement with minimal or zero added ingredients.
What Is Protein Powder?
Protein powder is simply high protein food in powder form.
Common types include whey protein, egg white protein, and pea protein.
It can be mixed with just water to make simple protein shakes, or added to smoothies, oatmeal, and other recipes.
Although people use protein powder to achieve different wellness goals, they all use it for the same basic reason, to increase their protein intake.
Research shows that for those who need the protein, protein supplementation is effective for the maintenance, repair, and synthesis of muscle, particularly in the context of resistance training and athletic recovery.
Keep in mind that unlike creative, protein powder is just food and protein supplementation is generally considered safe.
That said, protein powder is notorious for causing digestive issues.
And as is the case with creative, these side effects are usually caused by added ingredients.
It is therefore important that you read the ingredient list closely before buying a protein powder.
Here is a list of the most common food additives in protein powder:
- acacia fiber
- acacia gum
- acesulfame potassium
- artificial flavors
- ascorbic acid
- aspartame
- calcium carbonate
- carrageenan
- cellulose gum
- dextrin
- dicalcium phosphate
- dipotassium phosphate
- erythritol
- gellan gum
- guar gum
- gum arabic
- inulin
- locust bean gum
- maltitol
- maltodextrin
- mono- and diglycerides
- ‘natural’ flavors
- rice bran extract
- rice dextrin
- rice hulls
- rosemary extract
- silica
- silicon dioxide
- sodium alginate
- soluble corn fiber
- sorbitol
- soy lecithin
- sucralose
- sunflower lecithin
- tocopherols
- tricalcium phosphate
- xanthan gum
- xylitol
- zinc oxide
As a rule of thumb, if you could not find an ingredient in nature or make it at home, it is probably a food additive.
Can You Mix Protein Powder with Creatine?
Yes, you can mix creatine and protein powder.
In fact, many people choose to consume creatine and protein powder together as part of their fitness routine.
Mixing protein powder and creatine is a convenient way to improve athletic performance and doing so will not affect your ability to absorb and use either supplement.
That said, it is important to drink plenty of water and to stick to the recommended serving size.
Consuming too much at once, or not drinking enough water can cause or exacerbate the side effects outlined above.
It is also important to be mindful of the ingredients.
As you just learned, the many creatine and protein supplements are full of added junk.
Is Creatine in Protein Powder?
Creatine is not in most protein powders.
If there is creatine in a protein supplement, it is added, not naturally occurring.
Reviews
Gabriella
3 weeks ago
Verified Purchase As someone who has struggled with chronic conditions for 10+ years, getting in nutrient-dense foods is big part of how I care for my body. Finding options that are tasty and convenient is difficult. And I am always trying to eat enough in order to maintain my weight. Providers consistently recommend smoothies/shakes. I have tried so many over the years and each time the GI symptoms are intense or the flavor is awful! Since finding Drink Wholesome, I have finally been able to incorporate higher protein smoothies and shakes without the digestive upset. As a result, I have been able to maintain my weight more easily and even gain some beneficial weight. digestive issues
Gayle
2 months ago
Verified Purchase Drink Wholesome is really the best handful of ingredients protein powder that didnt give me any stomach issues at all. Anyone who has had bloat, etc should try this protein powder. I’ve been making smoothies since April 2025 and no problems at all. bloating
Matt
2 months ago
Verified Purchase After trying so many protein options and trying to live well with IBS on the go and staying fit and healthy in my 50s, I can honestly say what you are doing at Drink Wholesome is great. Keep up the great work, keep it simple and clean, and keep it positive like you have been. It’s refreshing and it works. Thank you. IBS
Frequently asked questions
Who is Drink Wholesome for?
Drink Wholesome is the best protein powder for sensitive stomachs. Because it’s made from a short list of simple ingredients, it’s also a great option for anyone who wants to avoid artificial and ultra-processed ingredients – including kids, seniors, and moms.
Why is Drink Wholesome easy to digest?
No Dairy
Drink Wholesome is made without whey and casein, which contain lactose, a sugar most people can’t fully digest. Dairy-based proteins, especially casein, also form a gel-like substance in your stomach, which can upset sensitive stomachs.
No Additives
Drink Wholesome is made without food additives. Regularly eating artificial sweeteners, emulsifiers, thickeners, and other additives can cause digestive issues and even long-term gut health problems.
Whole Food Protein
Drink Wholesome is made from whole food protein sources like almonds and egg whites. Unlike ultra-processed protein concentrates and isolates, which have been stripped of fiber, enzymes, and other natural digestive aids, whole foods are easy to break down and absorb.
Collagen vs egg white vs almond protein powder?
We make three types of Protein Powder for sensitive stomachs: Collagen Protein Powder, Egg White Protein Powder, and Vegan Almond Protein Powder. As long as you eat a balanced diet (get protein from a variety of sources), any type of protein powder can help you meet your protein needs. So just pick the type that best suits your personal preferences.
Ask our dietitian.
If you’re wondering which of our products is best for you, ask our registered dietitian. He’ll reply via email within 24 hours.
High Protein Blueberry Pancakes
PREP TIME
5 min
COOK TIME
5 min
SERVES
2
Ingredients
- ¼ cup Drink Wholesome
- ⅓ cup flour
- 2 egg whites
- ¼ cup plant milk
- 1 tbsp nut butter
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 cup blueberries
Instructions
In a blender, combine the egg whites, milk, ¼ cup blueberries, and almond butter. Pour the mixture into a small mixing bowl and add the protein powder and flour. Whisk until smooth. Pour ⅓ cup batter onto a heated and greased (or non-stick) pan to form pancakes. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes. This recipe makes 4-5 pancakes. Then, in a small saucepan, heat ¾ cup blueberries and the maple syrup over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes. Plate the pancakes and spoon blueberry jam on top.





