Wizard of Vitamins

Alpha Ketoglutarate (AKG) Vitamin

What is Alpha Ketoglutarate (AKG)?

Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) is the nitrogen-free portion of the amino acids known as glutamine and glutamic acid. It is formed in the Krebs cycle, the energy-producing process that occurs in most body cells. AKG is used by cells during growth and in healing from injuries and other wounds, and is especially important in the healing of muscle tissue. A controlled study found that intravenous AKG prevented a decline in protein synthesis in the muscles of patients recovering from surgery. For these reasons, it has been speculated that oral AKG supplements might help improve strength or muscle-mass gains by weightlifters, but no research has been done to test this theory.

Alpha Ketoglutarate (AKG) in Diets

AKG is present in many foods and is synthesized for use in dietary supplements.

Alpha Ketoglutarate (AKG) Medicinal Treatments

Athletic performance Surgery

Known Consequences of Alpha Ketoglutarate (AKG) Deficiency

AKG is not an essential nutrient, and no deficiency has been reported.

Alpha Ketoglutarate (AKG) Recommended Dosages

Only intravenous AKG has been used in research studies; no reliable information about desirable oral amounts is available.

Alpha Ketoglutarate (AKG) Side Effects

No side effects have been reported with the use of AKG. No clear interactions between AKG and other nutrients have been established. At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with alpha ketoglutarate (AKG).