Detection of creatine in the urine of swimming athletes using Raman spectroscopy technique Letícia Parada Moreira, Débora Dias Ferraretto Moura Rocco, Alexandre Galvão da Silva, Adriana Barrinha Fernandes, Marcos Tadeu Tavares Pacheco, Landulfo Silveira Jr.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify the presence of creatine in the urine of swimming athletes using the Raman technique. Urine samples were obtained from 5 elite swimmers aged 19 to 22 years from the UNISANTA professional team. Two of these athletes were taking creatine supplements. Single-jet urine samples were collected before and immediately after a 150-min training session, stored refrigerated, and subjected to Raman spectroscopy (830 nm, 350 mW, 20 s collection time). When comparing the spectra before training, spectral differences were observed after the training session, with increased Raman peaks at 829, 920, 1050, and 1397 cm-1, attributed to creatine. The athlete with the highest creatine peaks was one of those who reported dietary creatine supplementation. Athletes who did not report creatine intake also showed creatine peaks, although less significantly, suggesting basal concentration. High creatine peaks in urine suggest excess supplementation of the amino acid. Based on the biochemical analysis of urine provided by Raman spectroscopy, creatine supplementation can be adjusted according to the needs of each athlete, contributing to improved sports performance.