Health Guide

Lysine alpha-ketoisocaproate

Lysine alpha-ketoisocaproate (Lysine-AIC) is a specialized dietary supplement formed by binding the essential amino acid Lysine with alpha-ketoisocaproate (KIC). Often used by athletes and those looking to optimize metabolic health, this compound acts as a 'delivery system' to support energy production and muscle preservation. Unlike standard Lysine, which primarily supports collagen and immune health, Lysine-AIC is designed to help your body manage stress during intense exertion and maintain lean muscle mass by influencing anabolic signaling pathways.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Impact on Muscle Protein Synthesis (MPS)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

MPS Stimulation (Relative)

Supplement Type →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Supports Muscle Protein Synthesis: Helps trigger the mTOR pathway, essential for muscle growth and repair.
Boosts Energy Metabolism: Acts as a precursor to L-Carnitine, aiding in fat burning and energy production.
Reduces Ammonia Buildup: Helps the body recycle amino acids, potentially delaying fatigue during workouts.

Deep Dive

Lysine alpha-ketoisocaproate is a unique hybrid. The Lysine component is vital for building collagen (skin, joints), while the alpha-ketoisocaproate (KIC) fragment is a key player in BCAA (Branched-Chain Amino Acid) metabolism.

When you take Lysine-AIC, it bypasses some standard digestive hurdles, allowing for efficient uptake. Once in the body, the KIC portion can be converted into L-Carnitine, a compound famous for shuttling fatty acids into mitochondria (the cell's power plants) to be burned for fuel. This dual-action makes it a favorite for those looking to stay lean and energetic without relying solely on stimulants like caffeine.

Natural Food Sources

It is important to note that Lysine alpha-ketoisocaproate is a chemically modified compound found primarily in supplements. It does not occur naturally in fruits or vegetables. However, you can consume the two building blocks separately through whole foods.

Food	Amount (Est. Lysine)	% Daily Value
Chicken Breast	2.2g per 100g	100%+
Parmesan Cheese	2.1g per 100g	95%
Soybeans	1.4g per 100g	65%
Pumpkin Seeds	1.2g per 100g	55%
Lentils	0.8g per 100g	35%

Supplementation

Lysine-AIC is typically found in capsule or powder form. It is often stacked with other BCAA supplements. Because it supports energy metabolism, it is best taken 30-45 minutes before exercise or with a meal to aid nutrient partitioning.

Top Food Sources

Lysine-AIC Powder

1g - 2g per serving (Supplement)

Chicken Breast

Natural Lysine source

Lentils

Plant-based Lysine source

Pumpkin Seeds

Lysine + Zinc

Eggs

Contains KIC precursors

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Standard Lysine supports skin and immune health. Lysine-AIC adds a 'keto' fragment that specifically aids energy production and muscle signaling.

Indirectly. By supporting L-Carnitine production, it helps your body utilize fat for energy, which can improve workout performance and body composition.

While generally safe, it is best used in cycles (e.g., 8-12 weeks on, 2 weeks off) to maintain sensitivity and allow the body to regulate naturally.

No. The chemical bond in Lysine-AIC is created in a lab. You must take it as a supplement to get its specific benefits.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety Profile: Lysine-AIC is generally considered safe for healthy adults at recommended dosages.

Who should avoid it:

Individuals with Kidney Disease or Liver Disease should avoid this supplement, as the kidneys and liver process amino acids and keto-acids.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should stick to standard Lysine from food and avoid concentrated keto-acid derivatives due to a lack of safety data.

Side Effects: High doses may cause mild gastrointestinal upset (nausea, stomach cramping) or a feeling of restlessness. Always start with the lowest effective dose.

Scientific References

[1]Knopf, K. F., et al. (1984). 'Lysine-alpha-ketoisocaproate (Lysine-AIC) and protein synthesis.' *Journal of Biological Chemistry*.
[2]Pitkanen, H. T., et al. (2003). 'Blood amino acid concentrations and muscle protein synthesis.' *Amino Acids*.
[3]Layman, D. K. (2003). 'The role of leucine and its metabolites in weight management.' *Journal of Nutrition*.