Alpha-Ketoglutarate

Also known as: AKG, calcium alpha-ketoglutarate, CaAKG

Confidence

research strength

CLimited confidence4518 studies referenced

Latest evidence update: 2026-12-31

Strongest in Study quality (57). Held back by Replication (31).

Study quality (37%)

Study design (21%)

Risk of bias (16%)

Solid mix of RCTs with some methodological gaps.

Replication (26%)

Cross-study replication (21%)

Precision (5%)

Few independent replications; results not yet robust.

Sample size (16%)

Hundreds of participants; meaningful but not large.

Consistency (11%)

Mixed direction across studies.

Recency (10%)

Evidence base skews older; field may have moved on.

Effect by outcome

how big the change is

No per-outcome numbers yet for this one. Each finding's direction and strength is shown in the research below.

Longevity & aging

Common dosage

1000mg daily (as calcium AKG)

Description

Key metabolite in the Krebs cycle. Supplementation in mice extended lifespan by ~12% and compressed morbidity. May work through epigenetic mechanisms and TET enzyme activation.

Safety & interactions

Naturally occurring metabolite. Generally well-tolerated. Human aging trials are ongoing but results not yet published.

Check interactions with other supplements→

What the research shows

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Does not improve muscle endurance or performance during resistance training in trained individuals

strong evidence1 study:Journal of strength and conditioning research (2011)

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May actually reduce the number of repetitions completed during resistance exercises compared to placebo

moderate evidence1 study:Journal of strength and conditioning research (2011)

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Does not affect blood pressure response during or after resistance training

strong evidence1 study:Journal of strength and conditioning research (2011)

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Order Alpha-Ketoglutarate

Recommended: 1000mg daily (as calcium AKG)

Questions about Alpha-Ketoglutarate

Who has been studied for Alpha-Ketoglutarate?

Who should avoid Alpha-Ketoglutarate based on the safety notes?

What dose did studies use for Alpha-Ketoglutarate, and when was it taken?

Referenced studies (18)

ProtocolEngine provides general health information based on published research. This is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement or health protocol.