Alpha-Ketoglutarate
What is Alpha-Ketoglutarate?
Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) is a natural compound that is formed inside the body and is essential for a variety of bodily processes. It is an intermediate in the Krebs cycle or citric acid cycle, an essential metabolic pathway for the production of energy from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. AKG can also be found in certain foods such as red meat, spinach, and shellfish, and is available as a nutritional supplement.
Where is Alpha-Ketoglutarate Generally Used?
AKG is used in many areas of medicine, including sports medicine for increasing endurance and for potentially providing benefits during extreme physical activity. It has also been used for a variety of metabolic disorders, including diabetes and obesity. Additionally, AKG has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
Where is Alpha-Ketoglutarate Found?
AKG is naturally produced in the body and can also be found in some foods, such as red meat, spinach, and shellfish. Additionally, it is available as a nutritional supplement in various forms, such as powder, capsules, and tablets.
What Are the Health Benefits of Alpha-Ketoglutarate?
- May help improve athletic performance and endurance
- May help reduce fatigue and muscle soreness
- May help improve blood sugar control
- May help reduce inflammation
- May help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer
Interesting Facts about Alpha-Ketoglutarate
- AKG is the most abundant Krebs cycle intermediate in the body.
- During extreme physical activity, such as marathon running, AKG levels can decrease by up to 50%.
- AKG is being studied for its potential anti-aging properties.
List of Other Similar Ingredients and Their Properties
- Malate – known for its role in energy metabolism and for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Succinate – known for its role in energy metabolism and for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Fumarate – known for its role in energy metabolism and for its anti-cancer properties.
- Pyruvate – known for its role in energy metabolism and for its anti-oxidant properties.
- Aspartate – known for its role in energy metabolism and for its anti-bacterial properties.
- Glutamate – known for its role in energy metabolism and for its anti-allergic properties.