In this episode, I explore one of the most misunderstood molecules in medicine: creatine. Most people think of it purely as a muscle-building supplement, but its real power lies in something far broader. Creatine builds a reservoir of energy that any tissue in the body can draw on when demand spikes, whether that's the brain, the immune system, or the body healing from surgery.

We dive into the science of how creatine restores ATP, why I've come to view surgery as a metabolic stress rather than a purely mechanical event, and how this energy reserve supports recovery, protects the brain around anesthesia, and improves sleep in the postoperative period. I also cover the practical side of using creatine, including dosing, timing, loading, which forms actually matter, and why I now have nearly every patient on it going into a procedure. I share how my thinking has evolved over fifteen years of clinical use, why I take it myself and give it to my kids, and how it fits into my larger philosophy of preparing, executing, and recovering like an athlete. If you're interested in surgical recovery, cognitive performance, longevity, or the science of energy and healing, this episode reframes what creatine really is and why it may be one of the most valuable tools available.

CONNECT WITH HOST
Website: https://5c.co/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chesnut.md/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chesnutMD
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-chesnut-a6910baa/

WAYS TO WATCH/LISTEN
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@5CodesPodcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1FZ7vpmq21iA1noPcFhixb?si=992ef6c8d859463f
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/5-codes-podcast/id1866214238
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/5codespodcast/

TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Intro
00:51 - Creatine's Branding Problem
02:44 - The ATP Energy System Explained
04:07 - Surgery as a Metabolic Stress
05:28 - Fifteen Years of Clinical Use
07:20 - Dosing and Tissue Saturation
09:51 - Effects on the Brain and Sleep
14:24 - Safe Across Every Population
15:44 - How to Choose and Dose Creatine
20:25 - Preparing and Recovering Like an Athlete
21:21 - Creatine and Inflammation
23:39 - Closing Thoughts

ABOUT HOST
Dr. Cameron Chesnut is the host of the 5 Codes Podcast and the founder of 5C, where he leads a team dedicated to integrative cosmetic surgery, regenerative medicine, and functional health. An internationally recognized facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Chesnut is known for producing natural, refined results that enhance rather than alter one’s appearance. His approach blends surgical precision with biological optimization and disciplined restraint, drawing patients from around the world who value excellence, longevity, and holistic care. On the 5 Codes Podcast, Dr. Chesnut uncovers the mindsets and evidence-backed strategies he lives by, helping high performers perform better, recover smarter, and feel their best in every area of life.

DISCLAIMER
The views shared on this podcast are my own and are not associated with, affiliated with, or representative of my clinical teaching role at the University of Washington School of Medicine. This content is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered individualized medical advice.