DrFeb
Health Guide

Zinc alpha keto-glutarate

Zinc Alpha-Ketoglutarate (often abbreviated as Zn-AKG) is a unique chemical compound where the essential mineral Zinc is bound to Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG). Think of it as a 'two-for-one' nutritional powerhouse. Zinc is vital for your immune system and skin, while AKG is a key molecule your body uses for energy production and tissue repair. By combining them, Zn-AKG may offer enhanced benefits, particularly for cellular health and healthy aging. It is often marketed as a longevity supplement because AKG plays a central role in the Krebs cycle, the process that powers our cells.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Zinc alpha keto-glutarate
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Zinc Absorption: Natural vs. Supplement

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Estimated Bioavailability (%)
Method →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Cellular Energy: Fuels the Krebs cycle, helping your mitochondria (cell batteries) produce energy efficiently.
  • Immune Defense: Provides Zinc, which is critical for the development and function of immune cells.
  • Tissue Repair: Supports the synthesis of collagen, essential for skin, bones, and connective tissue.
  • Longevity Support: Research suggests AKG levels decline with age, and supplementation may support cellular health.

Deep Dive

Zinc Alpha-Ketoglutarate works by delivering two bioactive molecules directly to your system. The Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) component is a natural metabolite that acts as a nitrogen scavenger and a building block for amino acids. It is essential for healing and gut health. The Zinc component is one of the most important trace minerals in the body, acting as a catalyst in over 100 enzyme reactions. By binding them together, Zn-AKG may help improve the stability and absorption of these compounds, supporting everything from your energy levels to your skin's elasticity.

Natural Food Sources

It is important to note that you do not find 'Zinc Alpha-Ketoglutarate' naturally growing in food. Instead, your body synthesizes it by consuming the two components separately. To get the benefits, you should eat foods rich in Zinc and the amino acids that create AKG.

FoodAmount (Approx)% Daily Value (Zinc)
Oysters (Cooked)75g (2.5oz)493%
Pumpkin Seeds28g (1oz)20%
Beef (Cooked)85g (3oz)35%
Spinach (Boiled)1 cup8%
Lentils1 cup13%

Supplementation

Since Zn-AKG is a synthesized compound, you generally cannot get a therapeutic dose from food alone; you must take a supplement.

  • Dosage: Typical doses range from 500mg to 1000mg of Zn-AKG daily, but this varies wildly by brand. Check the label for the elemental zinc content (usually 15mg–30mg per serving).
  • Who should take it: People interested in longevity, athletes looking for recovery support, or those with mild Zinc deficiency.

Expert Tip: Always take Zinc supplements with food to avoid nausea.

Top Food Sources

Oysters
Best natural source of Zinc
Pumpkin Seeds
Great snack for Zinc
Beef
Contains Zinc and protein precursors for AKG
Spinach
Provides AKG precursors
Lentils
Plant-based Zinc and amino acids

Frequently Asked Questions

It depends on your goal. Zn-AKG provides AKG, which may support energy and longevity, whereas Zinc Gluconate is purely for immune support. For general use, both are effective.
Not directly. While AKG is involved in metabolism, there is no strong evidence that Zn-AKG causes weight loss on its own.
No. This is the most common mistake. Zinc irritates the stomach lining and will likely cause vomiting or cramps if taken without food.
Calcium AKG is often used for bone health and longevity, while Zinc AKG focuses more on immune function and wound healing alongside energy production.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety Profile

Side Effects:

  • Gastrointestinal distress: Taking Zinc on an empty stomach is the #1 cause of nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. Always take with food.
  • Metallic taste: Common with lozenges or liquid forms.

Interactions & Warnings:

  • Antibiotics: Zinc can interfere with the absorption of certain antibiotics (like tetracyclines and quinolones). Take them 2 hours apart.
  • Diuretics: Thiazide diuretics can increase zinc excretion.
  • Copper: Long-term high-dose Zinc intake (over 50mg elemental zinc daily) can block copper absorption, leading to a deficiency. If taking Zinc long-term, look for a formula that includes a small amount of copper.

Who should avoid it? People with kidney disease or those taking immunosuppressants should consult a doctor before adding Zinc supplements.

Scientific References

  • [1]Moe, S. M., et al. (2016). "The Effect of Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate on Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress." *American Journal of Nephrology*.
  • [2]Williams, M. Z., et al. (2021). "Zinc and Immunity: An Overview of the Mechanisms." *Journal of Immunology*.
  • [3]Tan, B. K., et al. (2020). "Alpha-Ketoglutarate: A Key Metabolite in Cellular Metabolism and Aging." *Nutrients*.