Alpha+Ketoglutarate

** Definition: **
==== α-Ketoglutarate is the anion of alpha ketoglutaric acid “produced by de-amination of glutamate, and is an intermediate in the Krebs cycle” (Wikipedia). It is a precursor to glutamine, glutamate, proline, and arginine. Alpha-ketoglutarate is synthesized naturally within the body and plays a role in nitrogen transport, oxidation reactions, and as a dietary supplement. ====

** Sources: **
==== Alpha ketoglutarate is synthesized by the body as a Kreb cycle intermediate. It is chemically engineered for supplemental use post-surgery, in some medical conditions, and as an ergogenic aid because it isn’t naturally found in any food sources. ====

** Recommendations: **
==== Intravenous supplementation is common post-surgery for its association with preventing muscle breakdown post-surgery and preventing blood supply problems (WebMD). From an athletic standpoint it may have ergogenic effect as an anti-catabolic and to increase nitric oxide production and improve performance. Additional uses may include kidney disease, intestinal and stomach disorders, bacterial infections, yeast infections, cataracts, and improving protein usage in hemodialysis patients (WebMD). ====

Alpha ketoglutarate supplementation appears safe for most adults. Due to lack of research it is generally recommended that alpha ketoglutarate is avoided during pregnancy and breast-feeding (WebMD).
====*//These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.//====

** Effective: 2 **
==== Although some studies have suggested a correlation between alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation and improved performance there is nothing conclusive linking the two. Until a more definitive conclusion is reached, the effectiveness of this supplement can't be guaranteed. ====

** Total Score: 13 **
====Although alpha-ketoglutarate is safe and easy to use, it isn't guaranteed to improve athletic performance. The price of this supplement is another down side. Overall I would not recommend this supplement to any athlete.====

References:
==== Wax, Benjamin, Kavazis, Andreas N., Webb, Heather E., & Brown, Stanley P. (2012). Acute L-arginine alpha ketoglutarate supplementation fails to improve muscular performance in resistance trained and untrained men. //Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 9//(17//).// ====

====Willoughby, Darryn S., Boucher, Tony, Reid, Jeremy, Skelton, Garson, & Clark, Mandy. (2011). Effects of 7 Days of Arginine-Alpha-Ketoglutarate Supplementation on Blood Flow, Plasma L-Arginine, Nitric Oxide Metabolites, and Asymmetric Dimethy Arginine After Resistance Exercise. //International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism.21// (291-299).====