Arginine alphaketoglutarate

Arginine alpha-ketoglutarate or AAKG is an amino acid derivative commonly marketed as a body building supplement. An intermediate in the metabolism of nitric oxides, no reputable scientific evidence shows any benefits from taking AAKG as a dietary supplement.

"At present, there is no research published in peer-reviewed journals to support the assertion that an increase in nitric oxide levels promotes greater muscle protein synthesis or improves muscle strength. There is also no evidence that the arginine alpha-ketoglutarate in “nitric oxide” supplements have any effect on nitric oxide levels in muscles." [ [http://www.baye.com/articles/nitric_oxide_supplements.php High Intensity Training by Drew Baye - NO Supplements? No Way! ] ]

References

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*Boger RH, Bode-Boger SM, Thiele W et al. Restoring vascular nitric oxide formation by L-arginine improves the symptoms of intermittent claudication in patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 1998; 32:1336-44.

*Campbell B, Baer J, Roberts M et al. Effects of arginine alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation on body composition and training adaptations.http://www.sportsnutritionsociety.org/site/admin/pdf/ISSN%20Abstracts%20SNRJ%201-1-S1-14-2004b.pdf

*Hambrecht R, Hilbrich L, Erbs S. Et al. Correction of endothelial dysfunction in chronic heart failure: additional effects of exercise training and oral L-arginine supplementation. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2000;35:706-13.

*Maxwell AJ, Zapien MP, Pearce GL et al. Randomized trial of a medical food for the dietary management of chronic, stable angina. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2002;39:37-45.