**Creatine monohydrate** is the most effective form for strength gains and is least likely to feel “bloated” when you take **3–5g daily** with **no loading**. If mixability matters, choose **micronized** monohydrate; if you want a well-known purity standard, look for **Creapure®**. The water creatine pulls is typically **inside the muscle cell (intramuscular)**—not the kind that causes stomach puffiness.