Potassium Alpha-Ketoglutarate

Why You Need It

• Cellular Energy: Serves as a key intermediate in the Krebs cycle, helping your mitochondria produce ATP (energy) more efficiently.
• Nitrogen Balance: Helps the body utilize amino acids (protein) effectively by transporting nitrogen, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth.
• Antioxidant Support: Acts as a precursor to glutathione, the body's 'master antioxidant' that fights oxidative stress.

Deep Dive

Alpha-Ketoglutarate is naturally produced by the body, but levels drop as we get older. Supplementing with AKG aims to restore these levels. Research suggests it plays a dual role: it fuels physical performance by optimizing oxygen utilization and energy output, and it supports cellular health by reducing ammonia toxicity and promoting detoxification pathways. For athletes, it may delay fatigue. For those interested in longevity, it appears to modulate pathways associated with healthy aging.

Natural Food Sources

While AKG is found in small amounts in the diet (mostly in aged foods like cheese), the body primarily synthesizes it from the amino acid glutamine and glutamic acid. Therefore, the best 'natural' strategy is to consume foods rich in these precursors.

Supplementation

Dosage: Clinical studies typically use doses ranging from 1,000 mg to 2,000 mg (1-2g) per day. It is often sold as a calcium or potassium salt. Who Should Take It: Athletes looking for performance gains, older adults interested in cellular health and energy maintenance, or individuals with specific medical deficiencies (under doctor supervision).