Arginine alpha-ketoglutarate (AAKG) is a dietary supplement used by athletes and bodybuilders to improve sports performance, reduce muscle fatigue, and enhance recovery. However, AAKG supplementation may also have added benefits for various diseases. Read on to find out more about how AAKG works, and 12 ways it’s claimed to help improve health.
What Is Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AAKG)?
Arginine alpha-ketoglutarate (AAKG) is a modified version of the amino acid arginine [1].
Alpha-ketoglutarate is an intermediate compound in the series of reactions that produce energy for the body. It is the source of the amino acids glutamate and glutamine. Glutamate is the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain and can increase bone formation. Glutamine is the main source of energy for cell division [2, 3].
Composition of AAKG
Arginine alpha-ketoglutarate is formed when two arginine molecules combine with one molecule of alpha-ketoglutarate.
The combination of alpha-ketoglutarate and arginine improves the stability of arginine. This is supposed to improve its performance-enhancing abilities and its role in energy production.
Natural Sources of L-arginine and Alpha-ketoglutarate
L-arginine is one of the 20 amino acids. It is considered a semi-essential amino acid because it can be obtained from both foods and built within our bodies.
L-arginine is found in high concentration in foods like watermelon, nuts, seeds, algae, meats, seafood, beans, lentils, whole grains, rice protein concentrate, and soy protein isolate [17].
L-arginine is synthesized in the body from citrulline. Though this synthesis can occur in many cell types, the majority occurs in the kidney [18, 19].
Alpha-ketoglutarate in an intermediate in the cycle to convert food to energy. In this cycle, it is formed from isocitrate. It can also be formed from glutamate [2].
Dietary supplements of L-arginine alpha-ketoglutarate (AAKG) are sold in the form of tablets, pills, or powder.
Alpha-ketoglutarate and L-arginine can also be purchased separately as individual supplements. These are available as capsules or powder.
