Alpha-Ketoglutarate and Weight Loss: What Does the Research Say?

Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) is a naturally occurring compound that plays a role in many important metabolic processes, including energy production, protein synthesis, and amino acid metabolism. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the potential of AKG to help with weight loss. 

There is some evidence to suggest that AKG may be beneficial for weight loss. For example, one study in rats found that AKG supplementation led to a decrease in body weight and fat mass. Another study in humans found that AKG supplementation increased energy expenditure and fat oxidation. 

Here are some of the potential mechanisms by which AKG may promote weight loss: 

• Enhanced Metabolism:

AKG has been shown to boost metabolic activity by enhancing the Krebs cycle and promoting the production of energy in the form of ATP. This increased energy expenditure may help individuals burn calories more efficiently and potentially support weight loss efforts. 

• Appetite Suppression:

Studies have suggested that AKG might have an appetite-suppressing effect, leading to reduced food intake. By regulating certain neurotransmitters related to hunger and satiety, AKG could help individuals feel fuller for longer and decrease overall calorie consumption. 

• Muscle Preservation:

During weight loss, there is a risk of losing both fat and muscle mass. However, AKG appears to have potential muscle-preserving effects. By promoting protein synthesis and reducing muscle breakdown, it may help maintain lean muscle mass even in a caloric deficit, contributing to a healthier body composition. 

• Fat Oxidation:

AKG has been implicated in the regulation of fatty acid metabolism. Research suggests that it may enhance fat oxidation, which is the process of breaking down stored fat into usable energy. By increasing the body's ability to burn fat, AKG could aid in achieving weight loss goals.

 Although the research on AKG and weight loss is still limited and further studies are needed to confirm the potential benefits of AKG for weight loss, AKG is a safe, natural and affordable supplement and may be worth considering as a way to help with weight loss.

References:

Chen, S., Bin, P., Ren, W., Gao, W., Liu, G., Yin, J., ... & Yin, Y. (2017). Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) lowers body weight and affects intestinal innate immunity through influencing intestinal microbiota. Nutrients, 9(11), 1224.

Tian, M., Huang, R., Zhang, L., Li, Y., Wang, J., & Yang, H. (2020). Dietary alpha‐ketoglutarate promotes beige adipogenesis and prevents obesity in middle‐aged mice. Aging Cell, 19(3), 565-575.

Pierzynowski, S., Gruszecki, W., Zielinski, M., Krawczyk, M., & Jastrzebski, Z. (2007). Alpha-ketoglutarate in nutrition support: a review. Nutrition, 23(5), 501-508.