Should Coaches be Allowed to Distribute Creatine?

YES

DEREK WU
Staff Writer

Recently, AHS’ football coaches were discharged from their services over the distribution of creatine to their athletes. Even though supplement distribution in high schools and colleges is illegal, over-the-counter supplements are not as dangerous as some prescription supplements.

Many of the supplements that the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) don’t allow are over-the-counter supplements. However, the Food and Drug Administration ensures that the labeling won’t mislead consumers, as with prescription drugs.

An example would be creatine, an organic acid that is found naturally in the body. There is a common misconception that creatine causes kidney disease, but when extra creatine is ingested, the kidney filters out the extra creatine.. This is unlikely if the right amount is ingested. In fact creatine has many benefits including muscle bulking and helping those who suffer from depression and bipolar disorder. If the NCAA allows other natural substances like vitamins and electrolytes, why should over-the-counter supplements with many beneficial health effects, like creatine, be banned from distribution?

NO

SHELLEY LIN
Staff Writer

An over-the-counter supplement, creatine, was distributed to the football players at Alhambra High School during the summer which caused the head football coach to be discharged. While creatine has positive, short-term effects that would benefit athletes, their health would be harmed in the long run.

National Collegiate Athletic Association prohibits teachers and staff in schools from giving creatine to athletes, although it doesn’t ban athletes from using it. Teachers and staff shouldn’t be allowed to distribute creatine to students without parental permission in the first place. Although creatine may fight muscle weakness associated with illnesses, it also consists of extremely low dosages of a naturally produced chemical. Taking too much of this substance could harm the kidney, liver or heart function. If a student were to be harmed with this supplement, the school would to be deemed responsible and the reputation of the school would decline.

When such risks ensue while taking a substance that advertises the opposite, there is no question in banning the distribution of creatine at schools. By eating balanced meals, an athlete’s performance can be enhanced without the use of any supplements.