<body><h1>Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AAKG)</h1><p><br></p><p><span style=”color: black;”> </span></p><p><span style=”color: black;”> syn. Arginine 2-oxoglutarate syn. L-arginine α-ketoglutaric acid</span></p><p><span style=”color: black;”> <div id=’imgblock’><img data-pointer=’9092’/></div></span></p><h2><span style=”color: black;”>Description: </span></h2><p> Arginine alpha-ketoglutarate (AAKG) is a modified form of L-arginine, which has been bonded with alpha-ketoglutarate (a glutamine precursor). The body will metabolize this to free arginine and alpha-ketoglutarate. Arginine is a common dietary amino acid, with a diverse set of biological activities important to athletic performance.144 It is involved in protein synthesis, the production of nitric oxide (necessary for vasodilation and nutrient delivery), the removal of ammonia, stimulation of the growth hormone axis, and the synthesis of creatine phosphate, an important constituent of the muscle energy cycle. Although the research concerning L-arginine as a single amino acid supplement is ongoing, it has been demonstrated to improve athletic performance in some contexts. </p><p> </p><p> <div id=’imgblock’><img data-pointer=’7000’/></div></p><p>Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) is an intermediary in the Krebs energy cycle (also known as the citric acid cycle). This metabolic pathway is vital to all cells, and involves the conversion of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into usable energy. The supplementation of alpha-ketoglutarate to animals has been shown to increase exercise endurance.145 Alpha-ketoglutarate may also positively influence protein metabolism and the anabolic/catabolic balance under some conditions.146 AKG supplements may also reduce ammonia levels during high protein intake, or when there are problems with nitrogen detoxification. Alpha-ketoglutarate has additionally been sold to improve athletic performance, although evidence on this use is still inconclusive. </p><h2> Promoted Benefits:</h2><p> Arginine alpha-ketoglutarate is promoted to increase nitric oxide production, and improve muscle mass, strength, endurance, and athletic performance. </p><p> </p><h2> Clinical Studies: </h2><p> This ingredient has been shown to improve performance in placebo-controlled studies with trained adults. It has a Clinical Support Rating of 5 (5/5).</p><p> One study involved the administration of arginine alpha-ketoglutarate to a group of resistance-trained men (aged 30-50 years).147 The dose used was 12 g per day, representing 6 g of arginine and 6 g of alphaketoglutarate. The total daily dose was divided into three applications of 4 g each, which were supplied in the form of time-release caplets (NO2®, MRI). The supplementation period was eight weeks, during which time all participants were subject to a controlled resistance training program. Subjects taking the time-release AAKG supplement noticed statistically significant improvements in bench press 1-rep max (+ 8.82 kg vs. + 2.67 kg), peak anaerobic power (+ 6%), time to peak power (+ 3%), and rate to fatigue (+ 8%) compared to placebo. This study supports the use of arginine alpha-ketoglutarate for improving resistance training performance. </p><h2> Empirical Evidence: </h2><p> Arginine alpha-ketoglutarate has been widely used as a stand-alone supplement. The feedback on this supplement has been positive. The general response of consumers seems to support a strong vasodilation effect during training, which is often accompanied by a perceived increase in muscle endurance. Many also find that strength and muscle mass are improved after several weeks of supplementation. Some others report dissatisfaction with the supplement, usually claiming a lack of substantial improvement even when an enhanced-pump effect is noticed. This, however, seems to represent a minority of users. Arginine alpha-ketoglutarate has an Empirical Evidence Rating of 4 (4/5).</p><h2> Effective Dosage: </h2><p> Based on clinical studies, a dosage of 12 grams per day is recommended. It is generally advised to limit intake to 8-12 weeks, followed by equal time off, as it is believed that chronic use of arginine products may upregulate the arginase enzyme, reducing nitric oxide production and the supplement’s efficacy.</p><h2> Side Effects / Safety: </h2><p> Arginine alpha-ketoglutarate was well tolerated during clinical studies, with no significant side effects reported in healthy subjects.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p><span style=”color: black;”> </span></p><p><span style=”color: black;”> </span></p></body>
