Applied Nutrition AAKG

AAKG is a product from UK based company Applied Nutrition. This product states that it can aid as a precursor to nitric oxide. This review will aim to examine the ingredients in this product to see if it can support the claims made.

Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AAKG)

Alpha-keto-glutarate is a non-essential amino acid that is produced naturally in the citric acid cycle. This ingredient has been found to have an effect on the breakdown of ammonia (1), playing a key role in the oxidation of glutamine and is suggested to increase protein synthesis (2). It doesn’t however affect body composition, fat free mass or aerobic capacity (1). More research needs to be taken to fully determine its effects as the mechanisms are poorly understood (3).  

HPMC (Vegetarian Capsule Shell)

HPMC stands for hydroxypropyl methylcellulose or hypromellose for short. It is a capsule to encase supplements. It is clear and tasteless;  comes in vegetarian and vegan forms and provides no nutritional benefit.

This product contains ingredients that can potentially help aid as a precursor to nitric oxid. This product should be consumed once a day with 4 capsules. This product has no banned substances when referring to the WADA prohibited list when observing the label / ingredients posted on the website. 

*NOTE – This product has not been tested in a laboratory and may contain other substances that may not appear on the label

1 – Campbell, B., Roberts, M., Kerksick, C., Wilborn, C., Marcello, B., Taylor, L., … & Kreider, R. (2006). Pharmacokinetics, safety, and effects on exercise performance of L-arginine α-ketoglutarate in trained adult men. Nutrition, 22(9), 872-881.

2 – Hammarqvist, F., Wernerman, J., Von der Decken, A., & Vinnars, E. (1991). Alpha-ketoglutarate preserves protein synthesis and free glutamine in skeletal muscle after surgery. Surgery, 109(1), 28-36.

3 – Goodman, C., Peeling, P., Ranchordas, M. K., Burke, L. M., Stear, S. J., & Castell, L. M. (2011). A to Z of nutritional supplements: dietary supplements, sports nutrition foods and ergogenic aids for health and performance—Part 21. British journal of sports medicine, 45(8), 677-679.