Evidence supporting the use of: Alpha ketoglutarate
For the health condition: Wasting

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Synopsis

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

Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) has been investigated for its potential role in supporting or treating muscle wasting (cachexia), particularly related to chronic illnesses, aging, or critical illness. AKG is a key intermediate in the Krebs cycle and plays a role in amino acid metabolism and energy production. Some scientific studies, including animal research and limited human trials, suggest that AKG supplementation may help reduce protein breakdown, improve nitrogen balance, and support muscle mass retention under catabolic conditions. In clinical settings, AKG—sometimes combined with other amino acids—has been used to support patients with chronic renal failure or those undergoing major surgery to help preserve lean body mass.

However, evidence in humans is still limited. Most supportive studies are small, short-term, or focused on specific patient populations. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses note a lack of large, high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically evaluating AKG for the treatment or prevention of wasting syndromes. Nevertheless, the mechanistic rationale and some promising early clinical data provide a basis for its consideration in this context, though it is not widely recognized as a standard therapy for wasting. Thus, the scientific support is modest (rated 2/5), reflecting preliminary evidence but lacking robust validation.

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