Arginine alpha-ketoglutarate (AAKG) is a compound made from the amino acid L-arginine and alpha-ketoglutarate, a substance formed in the body’s energy-generating process. AAKG is a popular supplement among bodybuilders and other athletes because of claims that it increases production of nitric oxide in muscles. Nitric oxide is known to have blood-flow-enhancing effects,1 which could in theory increase the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to exercising muscle. While L-arginine by itself is known to increase nitric oxide production, no research has been done to show that AAKG does the same. However, double-blind trials of AAKG suggest it improves some measures of strength and power resulting from weight training.2 3
Where is it found?
Although the substances that comprise AAKG are present in many foods, the AAKG compound is found only in supplements.
Arginine AKG (NO2 compound) has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
| Science Rating | Health Concerns |
|---|---|
 | Athletic performance |
 Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit. | |
How much is usually taken?
Optimal levels remain unknown, though weight lifters were given 12 grams per day in one trial.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
In an eight-week double-blind trial, weight lifters taking 4 grams of AAKG three times a day reported no significant side effects, showed no changes in blood pressure or heart rate, and had no abnormalities on standard blood tests for general health.4 These athletes also reported no undesirable changes in general health, mental health, libido, sleep quality, or other quality of life measures.5 Some doctors believe that people with herpes (either cold sores or genital herpes) should not take arginine supplements, because of the possibility that arginine might stimulate replication of the virus.
No clear interactions between AAKG and other nutrients have been established.
References
1. Cylwik D, Mogielnicki A, Buczko W. L-arginine and cardiovascular system. Pharmacol Rep 2005;57:14–22 [review].
2. Campbell B, Baer J, Roberts M, et al. Effects of arginine alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation on body composition and training adaptations. Sports Nutr Rev J 2004:1:S10 [abstract].
3. Campbell B, Roberts M, Kerksick C, et al. Pharmacokinetics, safety, and effects on exercise performance of l-arginine alpha-ketoglutarate in trained adult men. Nutrition 2006;22:872–81.
4. Vacanti T, Campbell B, Baer J, et al. Effects of arginine alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation on markers of catabolism and health status. Sports Nutr Rev J2004;1:S10–S11 [abstract].
5. Nassar EI, Bowden RG, Campbell B, et al. Effects of arginine alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation on quality of life. Sports Nutr Rev J 2004;1:S12–S13 [abstract].
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2006-09-07
