Infinite One Series: AAKG
Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AAKG) is a nonessential amino acid that supports the production of nitric oxide and the regulation of blood flow throughout the body.*
L-Arginine is a dietary supplement most commonly used by fitness enthusiasts and bodybuilders before a workout or athletic endeavor. L-Arginine has been shown to support nitric oxide activity within the body, and as such, has been suggested to have ergogenic effects during a workout session. Nitric oxide supports blood flow and oxygen to the working muscles, in turn, supporting muscle pumps, muscle performance and overall stamina.
It is believed that this increase in nitric oxide will allow for improved blood flow, and this could potentially be beneficial for individuals performing resistance exercises. It should be noted that concentrations of L-arginine in the body can be the rate limiting step for nitric oxide production. Arginine plays a pivotal role in the urea cycle, helping to rid the body of excess ammonia. This amino acid is also important in protein synthesis as well as for the support of healthy immune function. AAKG has arginine with alpha-ketoglutarate, another key player in amino acid metabolism, as well as in energy production. One study reported that an acute dose of AAKG increased maximal bench press and peak power. Researchers had subjects ingest 4 g of AAKG. Blood samples were taken for eight hours after AAKG ingestion to assess the pharmacokinetic profile of L-arginine. Participants performed four days of periodized resistance training per week for eight weeks. At 0, 4, and eight wk of supplementation, the following tests were performed: clinical blood markers, one repetition maximum bench press, isokinetic quadriceps muscle endurance, anaerobic power, aerobic capacity, total body water, body composition, and psychometric parameters tests. At the end of the study, AAKG supplementation appeared to be safe and well tolerated, and positively influenced 1RM bench press and Wingate peak power performance. AAKG did not affect body composition or aerobic capacity.
Campbell B, Roberts M, Kerksick C, Wilborn C, Marcello B, Taylor L, Nassar E, Leutholtz B, Bowden R, Rasmussen C, et al.: Pharmacokinetics, safety, and effects on exercise performance of L-arginine alpha-ketoglutarate in trained adult men. Nutrition 2006, 22:872-881.
The standard dosage before a workout is 3 – 6 grams, and to maintain arginine levels throughout the day, this amount can be taken up to two to three times per day.
If you’re looking to support nitric oxide levels, Infinite One® Arginine AKG can also be stacked with L-Cirulline to further assist blood flow to the working muscles.
