What is Alpha-ketoglutaric acid (AKG)?

Alpha-ketoglutaric acid (AKG) is a naturally occurring compound in the Krebs cycle that helps cells produce energy. It is also involved in amino acid and nitrogen metabolism.

What are the potential benefits of AKG supplements?

AKG is commonly marketed for energy support, exercise recovery, and healthy aging. Evidence in humans is limited and results are mixed for performance-related outcomes.

What is a typical AKG dosage?

Common supplemental amounts are about 1,000–3,000 mg per day. Dosing can vary by product form and individual tolerance.

Is AKG safe for everyone?

Many people tolerate AKG, but safety data are limited for long-term use and for certain medical conditions. People with kidney or liver disease, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, should consult a clinician before use.

Does AKG increase longevity in humans?

Some animal research suggests AKG may influence markers related to aging, but robust human evidence for longevity benefits is not established. Human studies are still needed to confirm effects.

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Alpha-
Ketoglutaric Acid

Limited research available·3/10

A higher score indicates better study conditions, but not necessarily effectiveness.

Alpha-ketoglutaric acid (AKG) is an intermediate of the Krebs cycle, commonly used as a supplement for energy support, exercise, longevity, and organ health.

Longevity Exercise Recovery Exercise Performance Muscle Gain Bone Health Liver Health Kidney Health Energy Support

dose range

1000–3000 mg

1-2 divided doses daily

Consumption

Take orally in capsule or powder form, with or without meals. Adjust based on tolerance.

Not fat-soluble.

Best time

Anytime; can be taken before or after exercise if using for recovery/performance support.

Description

Alpha-ketoglutaric acid (AKG) is a key metabolic compound involved in the energy-producing Krebs cycle, and is available as a dietary supplement often marketed for exercise performance, recovery, and healthy aging.

benefits

Main effects with level of evidence

Limited

Note on evidence

Most evidence for AKG in humans is preliminary, with stronger data in animals regarding longevity and bone health. Clinical benefit in exercise or recovery is not robust.

Healthy Aging and Longevity

Limited

Animal studies suggest AKG may promote longevity and improve markers of healthspan, although robust human studies are lacking.

Particularly relevant for: Older adults · Longevity enthusiasts

pubmed_bone_aging · Impact of Alpha-Ketoglutarate Supplementation on Bone Homeostasis and Lifespan in Mice

Exercise Performance and Recovery

Limited

AKG may help reduce ammonia buildup and support muscle recovery after intense exercise, but human trials show mixed results for performance enhancement.

Particularly relevant for: Athletes · Active adults

pubmed_exercise · Alpha-Ketoglutarate Supplementation and Exercise Performance: A Review examine_akg · Examine.com: Alpha-Ketoglutarate

Bone Health

Limited

AKG supplementation in animal models supports bone maintenance with age, though similar effects in humans need more study.

Particularly relevant for: Older adults · People with osteoporosis risk

pubmed_bone_aging · Impact of Alpha-Ketoglutarate Supplementation on Bone Homeostasis and Lifespan in Mice

Liver Health Support

Limited

AKG may modulate liver metabolism and offer protection in some models of liver injury, but evidence in human liver disease is currently insufficient.

Particularly relevant for: Liver health focus

frontiers_liver · Role of Alpha-Ketoglutarate in Liver Injury and Diseases

Kidney Health Support

Limited

AKG plays a role in kidney metabolism and ammonia handling, but safety and benefits in kidney disease require caution and physician oversight.

Particularly relevant for: Kidney health focus

pubmed_kidney · Alpha-ketoglutarate in the kidney: metabolism and function

Energy Support

Theoretical

As a Krebs cycle intermediate, AKG supports cellular energy production, though most healthy individuals synthesize enough endogenously.

Particularly relevant for: People seeking energy support

nih_akg_facts · NIH: Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG): Fact Sheet for Health Professionals pubmed_nitrogen · Alpha-ketoglutarate and its role in protein and amino acid metabolism

Safety & Information

Important safety information & known risks

For educational purposes only • not medical advice

Generally safe at typical doses for healthy adults, but safety in pregnancy, children, and those with kidney or liver disease is not well established.

warning notices

High doses may increase the risk of kidney stones, especially in predisposed individuals.
Safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding and in children is not established.
Those with advanced kidney or liver disease should avoid AKG supplementation unless specifically advised.
Do not use alpha-ketoglutaric acid supplements if you have a history of kidney stones or hyperoxaluria without physician supervision.
People with severe liver or kidney disease should avoid AKG unless directed by a healthcare provider.
Monitor for changes in kidney function when using high doses or in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.

Known interactions with medications

Caution with drugs affecting kidney function.

Contraindications / special precautions

Kidney stones
Severe renal impairment
Severe liver disease

interactions

Important interactions between active ingredient ↔ supplement / medication / food

AKG has limited documented nutrient or drug interactions, but caution is warranted with specifically kidney-related medications and certain conditions.

NutrientsDetailInteractions.empty

mechanisms of action

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