Creatine is such a well documented and valuable supplement, it could just be classified as a 'nutrient' . creatine is found in our diet anyways (at least for us meat eaters it is). If you want MORE energy capability within skeletal muscle, from our bodies energy source ATP , then creatine is responsible for boosting this capability at the cellular level. more is better (better performance, endurance, strength etc.)
I would NOT bother with a loading phase. that can cause gastric stress and is not really needed. just get in the habit of taking 5 grams per day and just stick to that dose long term every single day. there are zero known negatives to supplementing with it , other then some people have digestive issues with it.
water bloat in the form of edema, is NOT an issue or negative side effect of creatine like some people think it is ,, yes creatine will make you hold water, but ONLY in the skeletal muscle, this is GOOD water, you need water in the muscle cells for performance, nutrient carrying, energy, etc .etc. this is the whole point in taking it.