Only Consume creatine post training. take immediatley after training with 40gms dextrose. drink 20 - 40oz water over next 30 minutes, then consume post workout shake.
Creatine is very insulin dependent and post training is the ldeal time to take.
5 gms creatine is sufficient. If you are using a formula that contains sugar, make sure and shake and roll the container because creatine is heavier than dextose
and it settles on the bottom.
There is no need to "cycle" creatine. Cycling creatine offers no advantages over continuous use.
There's several university studies and published double blind studies that support creatines efficacy in building lean mass. It's effect on ATP is undeniable and when
used properly and consistently, it is in my opinion, the best legal supp out there.