matthew, the thread touched on this, but generally your muscles carry more water when you're on creatine. This makes them look fuller, but this means you look "bigger" than you really are. When you stop taking creatine, the water mass will eventually be reduced. But I wouldn't be too concerned about that unless you want this superficial "benefit."
Otherwise, I've read a few sources stating creatine is a "must have" supplement, but only when it comes to its enabling you to work out with more intensity and recover faster.
If you stop taking creatine after a period, you won't lose any real gains. You'll lose the edge it gives your training and a bit of water in your muscles. You won't lose strength (i.e. muscle tissue), merely some performance and recovery advantages.
It's actually recommended to "cycle" creatine intake. (i.e. don't take it all the time) It all depends on your training regimen. Generally take creatine during your most intense phases. Stop taking it when you cycle down or take a break to make changes to your routine. It's generally recommended to break from weightlifting for about a week every 3 months or so.
There are many ways to use it, but I wouldn't be worried about "side effects" of stopping creatine supplementation.
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Knowing that death is certain and that the time of death is uncertain, what's the most important thing?
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