Arginine alpha-ketoglutaramate (AKG) is a supplement marketed for muscle building and vascular health. It combines arginine and alpha-ketoglutaramate, which are believed to aid in building muscle, improving circulation, and strengthening the immune system. However, evidence for its effectiveness is lacking, and excessive use can have detrimental effects on the liver and brain. It is recommended to consume these building blocks through food and seek professional medical advice before using dietary supplements.
Arginine alpha-ketoglutaramate (AKG) is a nutritional supplement formed by combining the amino acid arginine with the glutamine-type amino acid alpha-ketoglutaramate. This supplement is primarily sold for use as a muscle builder and weight gain product. It is also marketed as a health supplement in the treatment of diabetes, erectile dysfunction, and general vascular conditioning.
Arginine is a major component in building nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide is a core element associated with cardiovascular health and circulation. It is also believed to stimulate growth and strengthen the body’s immune system due to its vascular dilation and signaling properties within the body.
Alpha-ketoglutaramate is derived from glutamic acid and is a precursor in the production of glutamate. Glutamate is an essential component in the transmission of sensory and nerve signals throughout the body. It is also a precursor in the development of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that contributes to relaxation and the development of chemical responses in the central nervous system.
AKG is a combination of primary amino acid building blocks, so its application is believed to aid in building muscle and stamina. Another anticipated benefit of its application is the elasticity and dilation of blood vessels, which contribute to vascular health and blood flow. Some reports and studies have shown this to be the case.
Strong evidence is lacking for the effectiveness of AKG in improving overall health and bodybuilding. Much of the difficulty lies in the metabolic processes of the body. It is still unknown how the human body breaks down and metabolizes certain chemicals and nutrients. Numerous studies have shown that the introduction of specific chemicals has had an unwanted or even detrimental effect, because the human body did not recognize the application that bypassed its own development processes.
Other unknown factors in the application of supplements like AKG include side effects and reactions. One of the products created in the breakdown of glutamic acid is ammonia, which is extracted in the liver and excreted. Excessive amounts of ammonia can have detrimental effects on the liver. Excessive levels of glutamate and glutamic acid have been implicated in complications such as Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, mental retardation, and seizures. People who have suffered a heart attack should not use L-arginine supplements.
The preferred method of increasing the amount of arginine and glutamate in the body is to eat foods rich in these building blocks. Foods such as dairy, whey protein, shellfish, oats, granola, nuts, and seeds have been found to be high in arginine. Supplements should be used only when deemed necessary and in conjunction with these foods. Professional medical advice should always be sought before using dietary supplements.
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