3 min read SO YOU’RE READY to start taking creatine. You did your research . You found a trusted brand . And then you read the directions on the container only to find what looks like a complex math word problem from high school. “Mix 1 scoop (5,000 mg) in water or your favorite beverage 3 to 4 times per day for the first 5 to 7 days. For maintenance, take 1 serving (5,000 mg) immediately after training." This is one example of the creatine “loading phase” and, yes, it’s confusing. Researchers have found this front-loading of creatine to be the most effective way to rapidly flush your system with the compound, which readies your muscles for maximum performance gains. Dietitians, on the other hand, argue that while, yes, this is true, the creatine loading phase isn’t especially necessary—and can cause uncomfortable side effects in some people. So what’s an eager creatine supplement taker to do? The answer is surprisingly simple.…