L-Arginine AKG
LโArginine AlphaโKetoglutarate (AKG)
Snapshot
LโArginine AKG is a salt of the amino acid Lโarginine and alphaโketoglutarate, designed to enhance nitric oxide production, energy metabolism, and exercise performance.
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What is LโArginine AKG?
LโArginine AKG combines two moleculesโLโarginine and alphaโketoglutarate (a key Krebs cycle intermediate)โto support both nitric oxide synthesis (via arginine) and cellular energy production (via AKG).
Where It Comes From
This compound is synthesized by reacting Lโarginine with alphaโketoglutaric acid under controlled conditions, then crystallized into a stable, bioavailable form suitable for capsule or powder supplements.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
LโArginine AKG supplies the free Lโarginine isomer and alphaโketoglutarate in an equimolar ratio. Arginine serves as a nitric oxide precursor, while AKG enters the Krebs cycle to support ATP generation and nitrogen disposal.
Health Benefits
Arginine in the complex promotes vasodilation and blood flow, enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery during exercise. AKG supports mitochondrial energy production, aids ammonia clearance via the urea cycle, and may reduce muscle protein breakdown.
Recommended Dosage
Typical doses range from 3 to 6โฏgrams of LโArginine AKG per day (providing approximately 1.5โ3โฏg arginine and 1.5โ3โฏg AKG), divided into two servings, often taken before workouts.
How to Use It
Mix powder into water or a sports drink and consume 30โ45โฏminutes prior to exercise. Capsules can be taken similarly, ensuring adequate hydration.
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for athletes and active individuals seeking improved blood flow, endurance, and recovery. It benefits those engaged in highโintensity or prolonged exercise and anyone aiming to support cellular energy metabolism.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
High doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. LโArginine AKG can interact with bloodโpressure medications and erectile dysfunction drugs by potentiating vasodilatory effects. Individuals with kidney or liver impairment should consult a healthcare provider.
Final Thoughts
LโArginine AKG combines the vascular benefits of arginine with the metabolic support of AKG, offering a synergistic supplement for performance and recovery. When dosed appropriately around exercise, it can enhance circulation, energy production, and muscle preservation.
Scientific Studies
Sureda, A., et al. (2007). The effects of Lโarginine/alphaโketoglutarate complex on performance, recovery, and endocrine responses in resistance exercise. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 21(3), 856โ862.
https://doi.org/10.1519/R-20697.1
Zajac, A., et al. (2010). Influence of combined Lโarginine and alphaโketoglutarate supplementation on aerobic and anaerobic exercise capacity in humans. International Journal of Sports Medicine, 31(10), 739โ745.
https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0030-1248338
Arciero, P. J., et al. (2007). Effects of acute ingestion of Lโarginine akg on blood flow and muscle performance during resistance exercise. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 21(1), 65โ70.
https://doi.org/10.1519/R-17869.1