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Compound

Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG)

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Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG). TCA-cycle intermediate studied for healthspan and frailty.

How it works. Substrate for α-KG-dependent dioxygenases (TET, PHD); modulates epigenetic age.

What the research supports. 1 graded claims. Strongest: Lowers biological age markers in pilot data (limited).

How much to take. Typical dose: 1–2 g (Ca-AKG).

Side effects and interactions. 1 medication interaction listed. No serious side effects listed at normal doses.

Stacking. Pairs well with NAD+ precursor (NMN or NR), Omega-3, Creatine monohydrate.

Common forms. Available as Capsule or softgel, Powder, Sublingual or buccal, Liposomal liquid.

Key studies. 8 studies cited. The strongest are listed with links to PubMed.

Community. Experiences from people who have tried Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG). Anecdotes are not medical advice.

Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG). TCA-cycle intermediate studied for healthspan and frailty.

Molecular structureC5H4O5-2 · 144.08 g/mol

What it is

TCA-cycle intermediate studied for healthspan and frailty.

Food sources

Endogenously produced or biosynthesized moleculeStandardized pharmaceutical- or food-grade supplementCombined with cofactors that improve absorption or activity

Goals

Healthy AgingMuscle Growth

How it works

Substrate for α-KG-dependent dioxygenases (TET, PHD); modulates epigenetic age.

Pathways

  • Substrate for α-KG-dependent dioxygenases (TET, PHD)
  • modulates epigenetic age

Effects

  • ↓biological age markers in pilot data decreases

What the research supports

Lowers biological age markers in pilot datalimited

Strong: consistent results across large trials or meta-analyses. Moderate: several trials, mostly positive. Limited: small or mixed studies. Preclinical: animal or cell research only.

Typical dose
1–2 g (Ca-AKG)
TimingConsistent daily timing recommended; split larger doses if GI tolerance is a concern.
With foodEmpty stomach
Best formMost evidence is based on the capsule or softgel form.
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Side effects & interactions

Common side effects

  • GI upset

Medication interactions

Prescription medications (general)minor

Always disclose Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) use to your prescriber — additive, antagonistic, or pharmacokinetic interactions are possible.

Check any supplement–medication combination with your pharmacist before starting.

Combines with

Pairs well

  • NAD+ precursor (NMN or NR)Complementary mitochondrial and sirtuin support.
  • Omega-3Lowers inflammation and supports membrane integrity.
  • Creatine monohydrateFoundational support for strength, power, and lean mass.

Common forms

  • Capsule or softgel
  • Powder
  • Sublingual or buccal
  • Liposomal liquid

Key studies

8 studies cited in total.

PubMed: Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) — Lowers biological age markers in pilot data ↗
Systematic review · PubMed (NLM) · 2026

Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) and "Lowers biological age markers in pilot data". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.

PubMed: Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) — randomized controlled trial ↗
Systematic review · PubMed (NLM) · 2026

Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) and "randomized controlled trial". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.

PubMed: Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) — meta-analysis ↗
Systematic review · PubMed (NLM) · 2026

Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) and "meta-analysis". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.

Discussion

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