PureBulk

What is L-Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AAKG)?

L-arginine alpha-ketoglutarate (AAKG) is a salt formed by combining two molecules of the amino acid arginine and one molecule of alpha-ketoglutarate. AAKG is directly involved in amino acid synthesis and protein availability. Many athletes augment their diets with this supplement.

AAKG is a well-known supplement for bodybuilders and performance athletes wanting to increase nitric oxide (NO) production. AAKG is a major ingredient in many body building formulas.

Health Benefits of AAKG

Arginine is a conditionally essential amino acid. During heavy physical training cycles inadequate amounts may be synthesized in the liver from other amino acids.

Arginine is found in high concentrations in nuts and seeds like peanuts and almonds. It can also be found in chocolate and dairy products.

Arginine acts as a precursor to nitric oxide (NO)(Wikipedia), a vasodilator that increases blood flow to the muscles, removing toxins and replacing supplies of fuel and oxygen.

AAKG promotes increased nitric oxide production and enhances blood flow, which in turn leads to better delivery of oxygen and nutrients to working muscle.

Although the precise mechanism is unknown, AAKG treatment may decrease muscle protein catabolism (breakdown) and increases protein synthesis. AAKG may increase amino acid metabolism (glutamine and arginine), which may help explain some of the clinical findings.

Purity and Concentration of AAKG

This pharmaceutical grade amino acid L-Arginine alpha-Ketoglutarate (2:1) contains no fillers, taste additives or anti-caking agents.

Suggested Use of AAKG

The suggested serving size for AAKG is 2600 milligrams (2.6 grams) taken up to three times daily, depending upon individual needs. Continued use for more than 80 days is not recommended. Bodybuilders and performance athletes may choose to go with higher amounts depending on the recommendation of their professional trainer. You can see the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for AAKG here, which shows that 1 teaspoon of powder will yield 2600 milligrams (2.6 grams).

Potential Side Effects of AAKG

Arginine alpha-ketoglutarate is safe at suggested serving sizes. It is not recommended for continuous use for more than 80 days.

Possible side effects include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and gout. Those with asthma may experience breathing changes.

Overuse can lead to restlessness and insomnia. Some report that ingesting AAKG before bed can cause difficulty falling asleep. Those experiencing such problems should avoid taking AAKG powder within 4 to 6 hours of bedtime.

Arginine may interact with certain medications that lower blood pressure. It may also interact with certain heart medications and drugs such as Viagra that treat erectile dysfunction.

This product is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing.

Solubility and taste

This product dissolves quickly in water and has a slightly sour taste. Mix with protein shakes or juice and drink.

References & Further Research

Pubmed: Pharmacokinetics, safety, and effects on exercise performance of L-arginine alpha-ketoglutarate in trained adult men

PubMed: Creatine, arginine alpha-ketogluturate, amino acids and medium-chain triglycerides and endurance and performance

NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates herbal and other dietary supplements differently than conventional medicines. The standards for supplements are found in the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), a federal law that defines dietary supplements and sets product-label­ing standards and health claim limits. To learn more about DSHEA, visit the FDA Web site.