4 Health Benefits of Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG)

Why you can't rely on diet alone.

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My Longevity Experiment
September 10, 2024

4 Health Benefits of Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG)

Benefits of Alpha-Ketoglutarate AKG

Why you can't rely on diet alone.

The Benefits of Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG)

Alpha-Ketoglutarate, also known as AKG or alpha-ketoglutaric acid, is a naturally occurring compound in the human body that plays a crucial role in cellular energy production. Specifically, it is a key intermediary in the Krebs cycle, a complex series of chemical reactions that produce energy by releasing stored energy from nutrients. AKG also serves as a precursor for the amino acids’ glutamate and glutamine, both of which are vital for various bodily functions.

Understanding Alpha-Ketoglutarate's Role in Energy Production

Alpha-ketoglutarate is essential for synthesizing the amino acids glutamate and glutamine. Glutamate acts as the brain's primary excitatory neurotransmitter and contributes to bone formation, while glutamine provides energy for cell division. Beyond these functions, AKG also regulates amino acid synthesis, aids in energy production, and plays a role in managing free radicals, which are potentially harmful molecules produced during metabolic processes.

Alpha-Ketoglutarate is Not Found in Food

One unique aspect of Alpha-Ketoglutarate is that it cannot be obtained through food sources. Instead, the body synthesizes it from non-essential amino acids. However, as people age, the body’s ability to produce AKG diminishes, much like the decline in Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD) levels. This decline necessitates supplementation for those who wish to maintain optimal levels of the compound.

For individuals seeking to increase their AKG levels, dietary supplements are the most effective method. These supplements provide the body with the AKG it can no longer synthesize as efficiently with age.

Medical Uses of Alpha-Ketoglutarate

Heart Surgery

In clinical settings, Alpha-Ketoglutarate is sometimes administered intravenously during heart surgery. The goal is to reduce damage to the heart muscle caused by restricted blood flow. Studies suggest that this intervention may also improve kidney blood flow following surgery.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Since the late 1990s, Alpha-Ketoglutarate has been used to help people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly those on hemodialysis who must adhere to a low-protein diet. AKG assists in the breakdown and absorption of protein, making it an important supplement for those managing CKD.

A 2017 study followed 1,483 people with advanced chronic kidney disease who used an Alpha-Ketoglutarate supplement known as Ketosteril. Results showed that those who took the supplement were less likely to require long-term dialysis than those who did not. However, the researchers noted that doses of fewer than 5.5 Ketosteril tablets per day were deemed insufficient. Despite promising results, more research is necessary to determine how much of the benefit came specifically from AKG versus other active ingredients in the supplement.

Gastrointestinal Health

Alpha-Ketoglutarate is believed to have anticatabolic properties, meaning it helps prevent the breakdown of tissues. A study published in the Italian Journal of Animal Science in 2012 revealed that AKG prevented the degradation of the intestines in lab rats that were fed a protein-free diet for 14 days. This suggests a potential role for AKG in preserving gastrointestinal health, particularly in conditions of protein deficiency.

Bone Health

Alpha-Ketoglutarate has been linked to improvements in bone health due to its ability to increase collagen production and enhance iron absorption. These processes are critical for bone density and strength. In a study involving 76 menopausal women with weakened bones, AKG supplementation over 24 weeks not only prevented bone loss but also led to the reconstruction of some bone tissue. Additionally, the supplement helped reduce symptoms of menopause, further highlighting its potential health benefits.

Animal studies have also demonstrated that AKG supplementation can improve bone density, supporting its use as a beneficial supplement for bone health, particularly in post-menopausal women and others at risk for bone loss.

Safety and Side Effects

While Alpha-Ketoglutarate is generally considered safe, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any supplement regimen. Long-term studies, including those lasting up to three years, have reported minimal side effects, suggesting that AKG is well-tolerated by most individuals.

Because AKG is derived from non-essential amino acids, the body has mechanisms in place to manage excess amounts. Any surplus of AKG is either excreted in urine or broken down into basic amino acids, which are then used for other physiological processes.

However, the safety of Alpha-Ketoglutarate supplementation in pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children has not been established, so caution is advised for these groups.

Dosage and Supplementation

Alpha-Ketoglutarate supplements are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and powders. There are no universally established guidelines for dosing, but typical dosages range from 300 mg to 1,000 mg, with most supplements recommending one dose per day, taken with or without food.

Some studies have safely used doses as high as 3,000 mg, but it is essential to follow a healthcare professional’s advice to determine the appropriate dosage for individual needs.

Alpha-Ketoglutarate offers a wide range of potential health benefits, particularly for individuals dealing with chronic kidney disease, gastrointestinal issues, or bone health concerns. Its role in energy production, tissue preservation, and cellular function underscores its importance in maintaining overall health. While more research is needed to fully understand all of its therapeutic applications, current studies suggest that Alpha-Ketoglutarate is a safe and effective supplement for those looking to enhance their health and well-being.

Study Links:

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