Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate (OKG) is a compound formed by combining the amino acid ornithine with alpha-ketoglutarate, a key intermediate in the Krebs cycle. Its use in supporting muscle health and function is primarily based on scientific exploration rather than traditional medicine. Research has examined OKG for its potential to reduce muscle wasting, promote protein synthesis, and support recovery, especially in clinical contexts such as trauma, surgery, burns, and malnutrition. Some clinical trials and animal studies have indicated that OKG supplementation may help preserve lean body mass and enhance nitrogen retention, likely due to its role in stimulating the secretion of anabolic hormones (such as growth hormone and insulin) and providing key substrates for protein synthesis.

However, the quality and quantity of evidence remain limited. Most studies have focused on hospitalized or catabolic patients rather than healthy individuals or athletes. The evidence supporting its benefit for muscle growth or maintenance in the general population is not robust, and outcomes across studies are inconsistent. Overall, while OKG is justified for muscle support based on some scientific rationale and data, the strength of the evidence is moderate at best, warranting a rating of 2/5.

References:

• De Bandt JP, Cynober L. Therapeutic use of branched-chain amino acids in burn, trauma, and sepsis: background and perspectives. J Nutr. 2006.
• Boutry-Regard C, et al. Ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate: a nutritional adjuvant in the management of patients in intensive care. Clin Nutr. 1991.

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