Normally, muscle cells derive energy by breaking down adenosine triphosphate or ATP to ADR. When supplies of ATP are exhausted, for example during a sprint, creatine can quickly replace the phosphate needed to ' reload' the cell. Because muscles can work harder with extra creatine, and also increase their water concentration, the extra activity also results in more muscle growth as well as increased muscle size. So here' s a caution. If your husband takes creatine, it is vital that he drinks plenty of water, as some people experience high blood pressure if they don' t. Others also get diarrhoea. While there is good evidence that creatine gives you the edge, it is ideally suited for sports where every second counts. Your husband would need 2 to 5g a day, although some recommend ' loading up' for five days before an event with 20g.

In terms of carb/protein meal replacements, ideally your husband should just eat more of what he normally does, with a focus on white meat and fish, limited red meat, lots of fresh organic vegetables and fruit and wholegrains (brown rice, wholemeal pasta, quinoa and so on).