FitAid RX: The First RTD with Beverage-Stable Creatine from CreaBev® Technology

A ready-to-drink beverage with creatine that actually works. FitAid RX uses CreaBev® encapsulation tech to deliver 1g stable creatine monohydrate -- solving a problem that's stumped the industry for decades.

For decades, the supplement industry has faced a seemingly-insurmountable challenge: how to put creatine monohydrate into ready-to-drink beverages without it degrading. Companies have tried and failed repeatedly, with products launching only to be pulled from shelves when the creatine inevitably broke down during processing and storage.

Creatine in a Beverage is Here, Thanks to CreaBev® in FitAid RX

Thanks to the help of some brilliant partnerships, LIFEAID Beverage Co. has finally solved this problem with the launch of FitAid RX, the first commercially successful ready-to-drink recovery beverage containing a full gram of stable creatine monohydrate. The secret lies in CreaBev® technology from Glanbia Nutritionals. This patent-pending encapsulation system protects creatine from the heat, acidity, and time that normally destroy it in liquid environments.

FitAid RX isn't just another recovery drink. It combines beverage-stable creatine with a blend of BCAAs, glutamine, turmeric, CoQ10, and natural caffeine from green tea in refreshing flavors. Available in both regular (40 calories) and zero sugar (5 calories) versions, this breakthrough beverage finally delivers the convenience of creatine supplementation without the hassle of powders or pills.

FitAid RX establishes a genuine paradigm shift in functional beverages: the first time consumers can confidently get their daily creatine from a grab-and-go drink that actually works. This article explains CreaBev® technology, as well as the product's other ingredients, but first, check prices and sign up for PricePlow's news alerts below:

What is FitAid RX?

FitAid RX is LIFEAID Beverage Co.'s flagship recovery drink that delivers 1,000mg of encapsulated creatine monohydrate along with a large blend of vitamins, minerals, and recovery-supporting ingredients. This lightly carbonated beverage balances tartness with subtle sweetness, creating an enjoyable post-workout (or intra-workout) experience.

The product line offers two versions to meet different dietary preferences. The original FitAid RX contains 40 calories and is naturally sweetened with organic agave nectar, while FitAid RX Zero Sugar provides the same creatine content and ingredient profile with just 5 calories using natural sweeteners like monk fruit and stevia. Both versions deliver 40mg of natural caffeine from green tea extract, just enough to provide a gentle energy boost without causing jitters or crashes.

FitAid RX targets competitive athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone seeking convenient creatine supplementation. Whether you're a competitive athlete looking to sneak in an extra gram of creatine, a dedicated lifter chasing better recovery, or a weekend warrior aiming to optimize your sessions, this beverage boosts your intake of some well-studied performance ingredients.

But it's really the creatine that makes this drink so unique. So let's get into the FitAid RX ingredients, and start there:

FitAid RX Ingredients

Each 12oz can of FitAid RX contains the following ingredients:

• CreaBev® - The Star Ingredient (1,000mg)

  It all starts with an ingredient that's been a long time coming:

  The Decades-Long Creatine Beverage Challenge

  The supplement industry has struggled getting creatine into beverages (and even gummies, for that matter) for over two decades. Standard creatine monohydrate rapidly degrades when exposed to liquid, especially under acidic conditions or elevated temperatures. This degradation converts useful creatine into creatinine, which is a metabolic waste product with no performance benefits. The processing requirements for commercial beverages, including ultra-high temperature treatment and extended shelf life, create perfect conditions for creatine destruction.

  Brent Petersen, Vice President of Research at Glanbia Nutritionals, explained to us in Episode #174 of the PricePlow Podcast how major multinational companies launched creatine beverages in international markets during the early 2000s, only to pull them from shelves when stability issues became apparent. Even products that claimed beverage-stable creatine consistently failed laboratory testing, containing little to no actual creatine after processing and storage.

  CreaBev®: The Encapsulation Solution

  CreaBev® from Glanbia Nutritionals solves this challenge through sophisticated patent-pending encapsulation technology that surrounds creatine monohydrate with a protective matrix. This innovation preserves creatine's integrity without making any chemical changes to the original creatine monohydrate compound. It simply protects it from the environmental factors that cause degradation.

  The encapsulation technology addresses multiple stability challenges simultaneously:

  • Heat Protection: Survives ultra-high temperature (UHT) processing at 285°F for 15 seconds
  • pH Resistance: Maintains stability across acidic to neutral pH ranges
  • Crystallization Prevention: Eliminates equipment problems and maintains smooth texture
  • Long-term Stability: Retains potency throughout extended shelf life

  Superior Stability Performance

  Internal testing reveals CreaBev®'s impressive stability advantages over standard creatine monohydrate:

  

  Ready-to-Drink Beverage Stability:

  • 73% creatine retention after 12 months at neutral pH (7.0)
  • 42% retention after 12 months at moderately acidic pH (4.5)
  • 30% retention after 12 months even at highly acidic pH (2.8)
  • No crystallization during high-temperature processing

  Short-Term Stability:

  • Only 2% degradation after 2 hours in water
  • Compared to 11% degradation within 5 minutes for standard creatine monohydrate

  These results are a quantum leap forward in beverage stability, finally making creatine RTDs commercially viable, especially with brands adding additional overages so that the label's specifications are made at 12 months.

  Enhanced Bioavailability

  Beyond stability, CreaBev® demonstrates impressive bioavailability advantages. In Glanbia Nutritionals' internal animal studies, CreaBev® achieved similar plasma creatine levels to standard creatine monohydrate despite containing 26% less actual creatine content. This suggests the encapsulation technology not only protects creatine from degradation but may actually enhance its absorption efficiency!

  

  Finally! Creatine that stays stable in beverages thanks to Glanbia Nutritionals' CreaBev™ technology. Plus OptiATP® brings actual cellular energy to RTDs -- not just caffeine. Add in Collameta™ marine collagen tripeptides & TruCal® bone minerals = strength from every angle. Read about all four ingredients in Glanbia Nutritionals' Strength Platform

  The improved solubility also enhances the consumer experience, creating smooth, pleasant-tasting beverages without the "sandy" texture that settles at the bottom -- a common complaint with traditional creatine products.

  CreaBev® is a part of the Glanbia Nutritionals' strength platform - click the link to learn more.

  Industry Game-Changer

  Long story short, CreaBev® is the first reliable solution to a problem that's stumped the beverage industry for decades. FitAid RX stands as proof of concept, demonstrating that consumers can finally access the performance benefits of creatine in a convenient, grab-and-go format without sacrificing efficacy for convenience.

  And just in case you need a brush-up on creatine, let's get into its benefits as well:

  The Benefits of Creatine

  Creatine is the most extensively-researched performance supplement available today. This organic acid naturally occurs in muscle tissue and serves as the foundation of the phosphocreatine (PCr) energy system, which is your body's fastest method for regenerating ATP during high-intensity activities.^[1]

  The creatine kinase/phosphocreatine (CK/PCr) system acts as an energy shuttle, rapidly converting stored phosphocreatine back into ATP at the exact sites where your muscles need it most.^[1] This system proves essential during explosive movements, resistance training, and repeated high-intensity efforts where your muscles demand immediate energy that can't wait for slower glycolytic or oxidative processes.

  

  After a full year at neutral pH, CreaBev® retains 70% of its creatine content while standard creatine completely degrades within days. The encapsulation technology prevents conversion to useless creatinine, keeping your beverage potent.

  Beyond its well-established role in muscle energy metabolism, creatine also functions as a cellular protectant. The CK/PCr system helps reduce the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and can act as both a direct and indirect antioxidant, supporting cellular health during intense training.^[1]

  While research consistently demonstrates creatine's benefits at standard doses of 3-5g daily, FitAid RX's 1g dose provides a solid foundation (or addition) for your daily creatine intake.^[1] Some studies suggest that even modest creatine doses can contribute to the gradual saturation of muscle creatine stores over time.^[2] For optimal results, consider pairing your FitAid RX with additional creatine throughout the day or incorporating creatine-rich foods like red meat and fish into your diet.

• Green Tea Extract (Natural Caffeine - 40mg)

  FitAid RX's green tea extract delivers 40mg of natural caffeine alongside powerful antioxidant compounds called catechins, creating a clean energy source that goes beyond simple stimulation. Unlike synthetic caffeine, this natural source provides a smoother energy boost without the harsh crash often associated with artificial stimulants.

  The extract contains high concentrations of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the most bioactive catechin responsible for green tea's health benefits.^[3] Research shows that the combination of caffeine and catechins may support enhanced fat oxidation during exercise, making it an ideal addition to a recovery drink.^[3]

  

  Even in ready-to-mix applications, CreaBev® maintains 98% stability after 2 hours versus 89% for standard creatine. Since most RTM drinks are consumed within 5-10 minutes, this near-perfect retention ensures full dosing.

  Beyond energy support, green tea extract functions as a potent antioxidant that may help combat exercise-induced oxidative stress. Studies demonstrate that green tea supplementation can significantly increase total antioxidant capacity while reducing markers of cellular damage.^[4] This dual action of providing clean energy while supporting recovery makes green tea extract a smart inclusion in FitAid RX's comprehensive formula.

  The 40mg caffeine content hits the sweet spot for post-workout or intra-workout consumption. It's enough to provide a gentle energy lift without interfering with sleep or causing jitters, while the accompanying catechins offer additional metabolic and antioxidant benefits that complement the drink's recovery focus.

• L-arginine hydrochloride

  L-arginine is the body's primary substrate for nitric oxide (NO) production through the enzyme nitric oxide synthase (NOS). This semi-essential amino acid plays a crucial role in vascular health by enabling smooth muscle cell relaxation and supporting healthy blood pressure regulation.^[5] It participates in a cycle with L-citrulline, and when L-arginine is converted to citrulline by endothelial NOS, it also produces nitric oxide that helps maintain normal endothelial function -- the inner lining of blood vessels that's essential for cardiovascular health.

  Beyond cardiovascular support, L-arginine contributes to immune system function through inducible NOS, which produces nitric oxide for cell signaling and immune cell communication.^[6] Research suggests that L-arginine supplementation may help support normal recovery processes and maintain healthy immune function, especially during periods of physical stress or intense training.

  

  Looking to give CreaBev® a shot? Check out FitAid RX from LifeAid!

  In the context of post-workout recovery, L-arginine's role in supporting healthy blood flow may help with nutrient delivery to muscles and the removal of metabolic byproducts. However, it's important to note that the L-arginine dose in FitAid RX is part of a proprietary blend and is a relatively small amount compared to clinical research dosages. While the ingredient contributes to the overall formulation, you shouldn't expect the same magnitude of effects seen in studies using higher, isolated doses of L-arginine. The inclusion here works synergistically with other recovery ingredients rather than serving as a standalone dose.

• L-Glutamine

  L-glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the human body and serves as a critical fuel source for immune cells and intestinal tissue. While the body normally produces sufficient glutamine under regular conditions, intense exercise creates a state where glutamine becomes "conditionally essential", meaning your body's demand exceeds its ability to produce adequate amounts.^[7]

  During exhaustive exercise, glutamine stores become depleted as muscles convert glutamine to facilitate protein metabolism.^[8] This depletion can compromise immune function and slow recovery, making post-workout glutamine supplementation potentially beneficial for supporting normal immune system function and maintaining healthy intestinal barrier integrity.^[9]

  Research suggests glutamine may help support muscle recovery by maintaining cellular glutamine levels and potentially reducing markers of muscle damage like creatine kinase.^[8] However, it's again worth noting that FitAid RX contains glutamine as part of a proprietary blend, meaning the dose will be modest compared to standalone glutamine supplements.

• D-Glucosamine Hydrochloride

  

  Less is more: CreaBev® achieves similar plasma creatine levels with 26% less material than standard creatine monohydrate. The enhanced absorption profile suggests the encapsulation technology improves bioavailability along with stability.

  Glucosamine is a naturally-occurring amino sugar found in cartilage that's commonly used to support joint health, especially among active individuals. At high doses, many studies show modest knee pain reduction benefits.^[10][11] The compound is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects, making it a popular choice for those seeking joint support.

  In FitAid RX, glucosamine is included as part of a comprehensive recovery formula rather than as a standalone joint supplement. Given the relatively small amount in this proprietary blend, you shouldn't expect significant joint benefits from this beverage alone -- you'd want a dedicated joint supplement if that's your primary goal.

• Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)

  The BCAAs, leucine, isoleucine, and valine, represent three of the nine essential amino acids that your body can't produce on its own. BCAAs are unique among amino acids because they're metabolized directly in muscle tissue rather than in the liver.^[12] This gives them a more direct pathway to influence muscle protein synthesis (MPS), the process by which your muscles repair and grow after exercise.

  Leucine acts as the primary trigger for activating the mTOR signaling pathway, while isoleucine and valine work synergistically to enhance this response.^[13]

  Research shows that higher-dose BCAA supplementation can modestly increase MPS rates following resistance exercise, though the response is approximately 50% lower than what you'd see from complete protein sources containing equivalent BCAA amounts.^[13] This occurs because BCAAs alone don't provide the full spectrum of essential amino acids needed for maximal protein synthesis.

  

  Exercise performance and recovery benefits

  Beyond muscle protein synthesis, BCAAs may support exercise capacity through metabolic pathways. Studies suggest BCAA supplementation can shift fuel utilization toward fat oxidation while helping maintain blood glucose levels during prolonged exercise.^[14] Additionally, BCAAs have shown promise for reducing exercise-induced muscle soreness and markers of muscle damage when consumed in sufficient doses.^[15]

  Realistic expectations

  Given that FitAid RX contains BCAAs within a proprietary blend, it's important to set realistic expectations. While the presence of BCAAs adds to the product's recovery profile, the amounts are going to be less than the typical 5-15g per serving in the research cited above. Think of the BCAAs in FitAid RX as a supporting player rather than the star of the show: they contribute to the overall recovery equation alongside creatine, glutamine, and other ingredients, but won't deliver the pronounced effects you'd expect from dedicated BCAA/EAA supplementation.

• Quercetin

  Quercetin is a powerful flavonoid antioxidant naturally found in fruits and vegetables like onions, apples, berries, and leafy greens. This compound has gained significant attention for its dual role as both a potent free radical scavenger and anti-inflammatory agent. Quercetin works through multiple mechanisms, including neutralizing reactive oxygen species that can damage cells and inhibiting key inflammatory pathways like NF-κB and MAPK.^[16]

  Research shows quercetin can reduce inflammatory markers including C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), though most studies demonstrating these effects used doses ranging from 100-1000mg daily.^[17] Some research has also explored quercetin's potential to support exercise recovery, with one study in trained cyclists showing that two weeks of quercetin supplementation helped resist inflammation after heavy exercise.^[18]

• Coenzyme Q10

  

  Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an endogenous compound that plays crucial roles in cellular energy production and antioxidant protection.^[19] This lipophilic quinone acts as a cofactor in mitochondrial respiratory complexes, supporting the synthesis of ATP -- the body's primary energy currency. CoQ10 concentrations are naturally highest in metabolically active tissues like the heart, kidneys, liver, and skeletal muscle.

  Beyond its bioenergetic functions, CoQ10's reduced form (ubiquinol) serves as a powerful antioxidant, both as a direct radical scavenger and by supporting the broader cellular antioxidant network.^[20] Research suggests CoQ10 supplementation may help reduce inflammatory markers like TNF-α and IL-6, while supporting cardiovascular health and recovery processes.^[21]

  This inclusion supports the FitAid RX's approach to recovery by contributing to cellular energy pathways and antioxidant protection.

• Turmeric Extract

  Turmeric extract provides curcumin, the bioactive compound responsible for turmeric's golden color and therapeutic properties. While the amount in FitAid RX's proprietary blend is modest, curcumin has been extensively studied for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.^[22]

  Research demonstrates that curcumin works through multiple pathways to support recovery, including modulation of inflammatory mediators like TNF-α and NF-κB.^[23] This makes it a logical addition to a recovery-focused beverage, where even small amounts may contribute to the overall anti-inflammatory profile alongside other ingredients like quercetin and CoQ10.



• B-Complex Vitamins

  FitAid RX includes a small amount of B-complex vitamins in its proprietary blend, providing modest nutritional support alongside its primary ingredients. While the doses are too low to make significant health claims, these vitamins work synergistically to support energy metabolism at the cellular level.

  The B-complex family includes several key nutrients, each playing distinct roles in human physiology:

  • Niacin (Vitamin B3) - Perhaps the most important for athletic performance, niacin serves as a precursor to NAD+ and NADP+, coenzymes essential for cellular energy production.^[24] In its nicotinic acid form, niacin is particularly efficient at supporting the mitochondrial processes that fuel exercise performance.
  • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) - Critical for amino acid metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis, B6 helps the body process proteins and supports proper nervous system function.^[25] However, athletes should note that while deficiency can impair performance, excessive B6 intake has been associated with peripheral neuropathy.
  • Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) - Essential for red blood cell formation and neurological function, B12 deficiency can lead to fatigue and decreased exercise capacity.^[25]
  • Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) - A key component of coenzyme A, which is fundamental to fat and carbohydrate metabolism during exercise.
  • Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) - Functions as part of flavin coenzymes that support cellular energy production and antioxidant systems.
  • Thiamine (Vitamin B1) - Essential for carbohydrate metabolism and proper nerve, muscle, and heart function during physical activity.

  These vitamins contribute to the beverage's comprehensive nutritional profile and may help fill minor gaps in an active individual's diet.

• Electrolytes (Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium)

  

  Electrolytes are minerals that carry electrical charges and are crucial for proper muscle function, nerve transmission, and fluid balance -- making them valuable additions to any post-workout beverage.^[26]

  First, note that this is a sodium-free beverage! There's no salt added, nor any sodium listed on the label. So if you're sweating a lot, you may want to get sodium elsewhere, since sodium is the primary mineral excreted in sweat.

  Magnesium works as nature's muscle relaxant by helping muscles contract and then properly relax after exercise.^[27] Research shows that intense physical activity increases magnesium requirements, as the mineral gets transferred from blood to active tissues during exercise.^[28] While the amount here won't replace a dedicated magnesium supplement, it supports the formula's overall recovery goals.

  Calcium and potassium work alongside magnesium to support proper muscle contraction and electrical signaling. Calcium triggers muscle contractions while magnesium helps them relax, creating the balanced muscle function essential for both performance and recovery.^[26] Potassium helps maintain proper fluid balance and supports normal blood pressure responses to exercise.

  Again, note that athletes who lose minerals through sweat are going to want to tailor their sodium intake appropriately -- there's none inside of FitAid RX.

How to Use FitAid RX

Timing and Dosage

FitAid RX is designed for post-workout consumption when your muscles need immediate recovery support. Drink one 12oz can within 30 minutes after completing your training session to maximize the benefits of creatine uptake and muscle protein synthesis. The 1,000mg of CreaBev® creatine provides a solid foundation for daily creatine intake, though you may want to supplement with additional creatine throughout the day to reach the clinically-proven 3-5g daily dose for optimal muscle saturation.^[1]

Since FitAid RX contains 40mg of natural caffeine from green tea, avoid consuming it within 4 or so hours of bedtime to prevent sleep interference (this will depend on your caffeine metabolism, which is largely genetic). The beverage can be used daily, making it an excellent addition to your post-workout routine regardless of training intensity.

For optimal creatine loading, consider pairing FitAid RX with additional creatine powder earlier in the day, creatine-rich foods like red meat and fish, or other creatine-containing supplements to reach the 3-5g daily intake that research shows provides maximum benefits.

Who Should Use FitAid RX

FitAid RX targets serious fitness enthusiasts, competitive athletes, and active individuals seeking convenient creatine supplementation. Whether you're a powerlifter needing reliable creatine intake, a CrossFit athlete looking for comprehensive recovery support, or a recreational gym-goer wanting to optimize your training results, this beverage eliminates the hassle of mixing powders while delivering research-backed performance ingredients.

The product works well for anyone engaging in high-intensity training, resistance exercise, or sports requiring explosive power and quick recovery between sessions. Both endurance athletes and strength-focused individuals can benefit from the combination of creatine, BCAAs, and antioxidant support.

FitAid RX Flavors and Versions

Below is a full list of flavors tracked by PricePlow, followed with a discussion on the two major variations:

Regular vs Zero Sugar

FitAid RX isn't just any beverage - it's one powered by CreaBev®!

FitAid RX offers two variations to meet different dietary preferences while delivering the same 1,000mg of CreaBev® creatine and comprehensive ingredient profile:

• The original FitAid RX contains 40 calories and is naturally sweetened with organic agave nectar, providing a traditional approach that many users find satisfying without being overly sweet.
• FitAid RX Zero Sugar reduces calories to just 5 per can using natural sweeteners including monk fruit extract and stevia. This version has more flavors, but keeps the same sour grape flavor profile and ingredient potency while accommodating those following low-carb diets, counting macros, or simply preferring sugar-free options.

Both versions contain identical amounts of creatine, BCAAs, vitamins, and other active ingredients, ensuring you get the same performance benefits regardless of your caloric preferences. The choice comes down to personal taste preference and whether the 35-calorie difference fits your nutritional goals.

Conclusion: The Future of Functional Beverages is Here

FitAid RX represents a genuine breakthrough in functional beverage technology. For over two decades, the supplement industry has struggled with an impossible challenge: how to put creatine monohydrate into ready-to-drink beverages without it degrading into creatinine. With the help of CreaBev® technology from Glanbia Nutritionals, LIFEAID Beverage Co. is delivering a full gram of stable, bioavailable creatine in a convenient grab-and-go format.

This isn't just another recovery drink -- it's the first commercially successful RTD beverage to crack the creatine stability code. With CreaBev®'s patent-pending encapsulation technology, we have creatine monohydrate that's protected through ultra-high temperature processing, maintains potency across acidic to neutral pH ranges, and delivers up to 73% retention after 12 months at neutral pH. When you consider that previous attempts at creatine beverages saw 95% degradation within three months, this brings a quantum leap forward in ingredient technology.

Beyond the groundbreaking creatine delivery, FitAid RX provides a comprehensive recovery formula with BCAAs, glutamine, natural caffeine from green tea, and antioxidant compounds like quercetin and turmeric. The result is a beverage that doesn't just solve the creatine problem — it reimagines what's possible in functional nutrition.

CreaBev® technology signals the beginning of a new era where consumers no longer have to choose between convenience and efficacy. As we explored in our previous analysis of Glanbia Nutritionals' strength platform, this innovation is part of a broader transformation in beverage-stable ingredients that includes OptiATP™ for cellular energy delivery and advanced collagen technologies.

To dive deeper into the science behind these breakthroughs, be sure to catch our upcoming podcast episode with Brent Petersen (Vice President of Research) and Rachel Schreck (Product Strategic Manager) from Glanbia Nutritionals. They'll share the fascinating story of how CreaBev® came to life and what other beverage innovations are on the horizon.

For decades, creatine users have mixed powders, swallowed pills, and dealt with poor solubility. FitAid RX changes all of that. Finally, the most researched performance supplement in history is available in the most convenient format possible -- and it actually works.