<body><h2>Alpha-Ketoisocaproic Acid (KIC)</h2><p><br></p><p><span style=”color: black;”> syn. 2-ketoisocaproate syn. alpha-oxoisocaproate</span></p><p><span style=”color: black;”> image</span></p><h2><span style=”color: black;”>Description: </span></h2><p> Alpha-ketoisocaproic acid (KIC) is a natural metabolite of the branched-chain amino acid L-leucine. It is also a precursor to beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate(HMB).73 Alpha-ketoisocaproic acid is involved in a number of biological activities that might lend itself to efficacious supplementation. For example, KIC has been shown to increase nitrogen retention and preserve muscle protein in studies with both animals and postoperative patients.74,75 It has also been shown to spare the utilization of glucose, which may allow it to preserve muscle energy.76 It may also reduce the buildup of ammonia, which could help maintain optimal muscle performance.77 Unfortunately, studies on the use of alpha-ketoisocaproic acid as an isolated supplement in exercising adults have been very limited, and thus far not supportive.</p><p>image</p><p>Promoted Benefits:</p><p> Alpha-ketoisocaproic acid is promoted to improve exercise endurance, and support increased muscle size, strength, and performance. </p><h2> Clinical Studies: </h2><p> The use of alpha-ketoisocaproic acid as a sport supplement is supported by animal data only. Its Clinical Support Rating is 2 (2/5).</p><p> One study examined the effect of alpha-ketoisocaproic acid on the growth rate of lambs.78 The animals were given the amino acid metabolite both via injection, and orally at varying dosages (1-15 g per animal). Animals supplemented with alpha-ketoisocaproic acid were noted to have greater gains in lean muscle tissue, accompanied by greater reductions in fat loss, compared to non-supplemented animals.</p><p> There has been one placebo-controlled study of the short-term supplementation of alpha-ketoisocaproic acid by resistance-trained men.79 Subjects took a dose of either 1.5 g or 9 g of KIC immediately prior to exercise, which consisted of both upper and lower body resistance training (leg and chest press). During this study, alpha-ketoisocaproic acid failed to improve acute muscle performance. Whether the results may have been different after continued supplementation remains unknown.</p><p> Further research is needed to determine if there is any ergogenic value to the use of alpha-ketoisocaproic acid by athletic individuals.</p><h2> Empirical Evidence: </h2><p> Alpha-ketoisocaproic acid has not been widely used as a stand-alone supplement. As a result, user feedback has been limited. Of the data available, the experiences from this supplement have been very mixed, but less than favorable. Some have noticed benefits to KIC supplementation, usually with improvements in muscle stamina. There are also a few reports of substantial muscle or strength gain. A slightly larger percentage of users find they are unable to attribute any specific performance or body composition benefit (muscle mass, strength, endurance) to its use. It is difficult to draw conclusions based on the strong divergence of opinion. Alpha-ketoisocaproic acid has an Empirical Evidence Rating of 2 (2/5).</p><h2> Effective Dosage: </h2><p> An effective dosage of this supplement has not been established. Manufacturers typically recommend 2- 10 g per day.</p><h2> Side Effects / Safety: </h2><p> Alpha-ketoisocaproic acid was well tolerated during clinical studies, with no significant side effects reported. </p><p> </p><p><span style=”color: black;”> </span></p></body>
