- Discover the benefits of calcium alpha-ketoglutarate (Ca-AKG) for longevity and healthspan. Learn how it can enhance your lifespan and overall well-being.
What is Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate (Ca-AKG)? Longevity Benefits, Dosage and Side Effects
Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate (Ca-AKG) has emerged as a significant player in the field of longevity supplements. It's a calcium salt form of alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG), a naturally occurring compound in the body that plays a crucial role in cellular energy production and amino acid metabolism. Levels of AKG decline significantly with age—dropping about tenfold between ages 40 and 80—making supplementation a potential strategy to combat age-related decline and promote healthier ageing.
Studies suggest that supplementing with Ca-AKG may help regulate biological age by supporting cell metabolism, enhancing muscle performance, and improving bone mass. This metabolite is also linked to epigenetic effects, such as influencing DNA methylation, which regulates gene expression. These potential benefits have made it a focal point in research exploring ways to extend both lifespan and health span.
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Interested in learning more about how Ca-AKG can influence biological age and promote healthier ageing? Explore our comprehensive guide to discover its potential benefits for longevity.
What is Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate (Ca-AKG)?
Calcium alpha-ketoglutarate (Ca-AKG) is the calcium salt form of alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG), an important compound in the body's cellular processes. AKG plays a pivotal role in the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), not only crucial for generating cellular energy but also for regulating various biological processes linked to longevity, stem cell behavior, fertility, and cancer cell modulation. As we age, levels of AKG decline, potentially leading to decreased energy production and metabolic efficiency. Supplementing with Ca-AKG may help mitigate age-related decline, promoting healthier ageing and longevity.
How Does Alpha-Ketoglutarate Work?
Energy Production and Metabolic Support
AKG is central to the citric acid cycle, where it facilitates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of cells. By enhancing ATP production, AKG supports various cellular functions. Supplementation with AKG may help maintain energy levels, especially as natural AKG production decreases with age.
Amino Acid Synthesis and Protein Metabolism
Through transamination, AKG assists in the synthesis of non-essential amino acids like glutamine and arginine. These amino acids are crucial for muscle growth, immune function, and gut health. By supporting amino acid metabolism, AKG contributes to overall protein synthesis and muscle maintenance.
DNA Methylation and Epigenetic Effects
AKG influences DNA methylation, an epigenetic mechanism that regulates gene expression. Proper DNA methylation is vital for genomic stability and preventing age-related diseases. AKG's role in promoting healthy DNA methylation patterns may contribute to its potential anti-ageing effects.
Immune System Modulation
AKG may modulate the immune response by promoting anti-inflammatory cytokine production. This helps reduce chronic inflammation, a factor associated with many age-related conditions. By maintaining immune balance, AKG supports overall health.
Health Benefits of Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate
Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate offers a range of potential health benefits that extend beyond basic metabolic functions. As an endogenous metabolite involved in vital cellular processes, it influences physiological pathways crucial for maintaining vitality and well-being. From supporting muscle and bone health to modulating immune responses and gene expression, Ca-AKG supplementation may play a significant role in promoting healthy ageing and enhancing quality of life.
Extending Lifespan and Healthspan
One of the most exciting areas of research on AKG is its potential to extend both lifespan and healthspan. Studies have shown that AKG supplementation can inhibit pathways associated with cellular ageing, such as the mTOR pathway, and promote cellular autophagy—a process where cells remove damaged components to maintain cellular health. In a landmark study published in Cell Metabolism, researchers found that, while also reducing frailty and delaying the onset of age-related diseases. Advanced testing methods, such as the TruAge DNA methylation test, are being used to assess biological age and evaluate the impact of interventions like AKG supplementation on DNA methylation patterns and ageing processes. These findings suggest that Ca-AKG supplementation could have similar benefits for humans, particularly in promoting healthy ageing.
Muscle Health and Recovery
AKG is associated with muscle health, particularly in mitigating muscle loss and aiding recovery after surgery or trauma. By supporting protein synthesis and maintaining healthy levels of glutamine and arginine, it helps in muscle repair and growth. AKG may stimulate muscle hypertrophy, enhancing muscle growth and strength. This makes it beneficial not only for older adults but also for athletes and individuals seeking to improve physical performance. AKG is also used as a sports supplement to support muscle recovery and growth, particularly when combined with compounds like ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate.
Bone Health and Osteoporosis Prevention
Calcium alpha-ketoglutarate may help improve bone mass and prevent bone density loss,, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and maintaining a strong skeletal structure. By assisting in collagen production, it supports bone strength and integrity. A 2014 study found that AKG had an anti-osteopenic effect, helping to maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. AKG increased bone strength in animal studies, highlighting its potential benefits.
Reducing Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are significant contributors to ageing and age-related diseases. AKG has been shown to reduce inflammatory pathways, particularly through the inhibition of NF-KB, a key regulator of inflammation in the body. By stabilising redox homeostasis, AKG helps balance reactive oxygen species (free radicals), reducing oxidative stress and protecting cells from damage.
Metabolic Health and Weight Management
Research indicates that AKG supplementation might be beneficial in weight management. Animal studies have shown that AKG can lead to reduced fat mass, better glucose tolerance, and an increase in brown adipose tissue, contributing to better weight control and metabolic health.
Gut Health Support
AKG aids in gut health by facilitating the production of glutamine and arginine. Glutamine and alpha-ketoglutarate are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the gut lining and ensuring a balanced microbiome, essential for optimal gastrointestinal function.
Immune and Epigenetic Regulation
AKG is involved in immune regulation, assisting the body in maintaining a robust immune response. Its role in DNA methylation and epigenetic regulation indicates that it may influence gene expression, which can have far-reaching effects on health and longevity. By supporting DNA repair mechanisms and genomic stability, AKG contributes to cellular health and may have anti-ageing effects.
As an endogenous metabolite produced in the tricarboxylic acid cycle, levels of AKG decline with age, leading to a deficiency of AKG. Supplementing with Ca-AKG may help counteract this decline, supporting healthy ageing and potentially extending lifespan, as shown in studies where alpha-ketoglutarate was shown to extend lifespan in ageing mice following AKG treatment.
Key Benefits at a Glance:
- Extends lifespan and healthspan by promoting cellular health and delaying age-related decline.
- Improves muscle health and recovery by stimulating protein synthesis and supporting skeletal muscle maintenance.
- Enhances bone strength and integrity by aiding collagen production, potentially preventing bone density loss.
- Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, protecting cells from damage.
- Supports metabolic health and weight management by improving glucose tolerance and reducing fat mass.
- Promotes gut health by increasing glutamine and arginine production, supporting the gut lining and microbiome.
- Modulates immune responses and influences gene expression through epigenetic effects like DNA methylation.
Possible Risks and Side Effects of AKG and Ca-AKG Supplements
While AKG and Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate supplements are generally considered safe for consumption, it's important to be aware of potential risks and side effects.
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Digestive Upset: Some users have reported digestive disturbances such as nausea, bloating, or diarrhoea when taking AKG supplements. These side effects are generally mild and may subside with continued use or dosage adjustment. Taking the supplements with food may help mitigate these issues.
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Specific Populations: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and individuals with kidney issues should consult a healthcare provider before starting AKG or Ca-AKG supplementation. The lack of substantial data on its use in these groups warrants caution.
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Interactions with Medications and Other Supplements: AKG may interact with certain medications, particularly those affecting liver metabolism. Additionally, combining AKG with other supplements like arginine alpha-ketoglutarate (A-AKG) or ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate (OKG) should be done cautiously. It's important to consult a healthcare provider if you are taking prescribed drugs or other supplements.
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Calcium Overload: When using Ca-AKG, excessive calcium intake is possible, especially for those already taking calcium supplements. High calcium levels can lead to complications like kidney stones, requiring careful balance and monitoring.
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Long-Term Safety: While studies suggest that AKG can be taken safely for up to three years with minimal adverse effects, most research has been conducted on animals. More human clinical trials are needed to fully understand its long-term safety.
Key Considerations:
- Generally safe for consumption, but more human trials are needed.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and those with kidney issues should consult a healthcare provider.
- Possible mild digestive discomfort may occur in some individuals.
- Combining AKG with other supplements should be done cautiously.
Can You Obtain Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate from Dietary Sources?
AKG is an endogenous compound, meaning it is naturally produced by the body during the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle). While many nutrients are sourced from foods, AKG and its calcium salt form, Ca-AKG, are not abundantly present in a typical diet. Therefore, direct intake of AKG through food is minimal.
However, certain dietary strategies can influence the production of AKG and enhance the efficiency of the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Two notable approaches include caloric restriction and ketogenic diets:
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Caloric Restriction: Reducing caloric intake can stimulate the body's natural production of AKG by enhancing mitochondrial efficiency and promoting fatty acid oxidation. This process helps support cellular health and longevity, similar to the effects observed with AKG supplementation.
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Ketogenic Diets: A diet high in fats and low in carbohydrates induces a state of ketosis, where the body relies on fat for fuel instead of glucose. This metabolic shift can boost the production of AKG by enhancing the activity of enzymes involved in the Krebs cycle.
While these dietary strategies may increase endogenous AKG levels, supplementation with Ca-AKG ensures sufficient intake of this compound, supporting functions linked to energy production, muscle health, and potentially even ageing.
Supplements and Dosage
Supplementation is often recommended to maintain optimal levels of alpha-ketoglutarate, particularly for individuals looking to support their body's metabolic processes and overall wellness. The most commonly used form of supplementation is Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate (Ca-AKG), which plays a critical role in energy metabolism and may contribute to maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Recommended Dosage
For most individuals, the recommended dosage of Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate is two capsules per day, providing a total of 1000 mg of Ca-AKG. This dosage supports daily wellness and energy metabolism. However, it’s important to note that individual needs may vary, and dosages may need to be adjusted based on factors such as age, health status, and specific health goals.
Forms of Alpha-Ketoglutarate
Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate (Ca-AKG) is the primary form used in this supplement, known for its robust chemical stability and effectiveness in supporting metabolic health. It integrates seamlessly into daily routines, making it ideal for those focused on maintaining balanced energy levels and overall wellness.
How to Use
For best results, take Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate with or without food, based on personal preference. Since AKG is highly stable and absorbable, there are no strict guidelines for its consumption. To maintain its potency, be sure to store the supplement in a cool, dry, airtight, and dark place, away from direct sunlight.
Consistency is key when using AKG supplements to experience the full range of benefits, including improved energy levels and overall health support.
For more information or to explore the benefits of Pure Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate, visit Longevity Box Pure Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate.
Conclusion
AKG plays a significant role in our understanding of longevity and cellular health. As an endogenous metabolite involved in the tricarboxylic acid cycle, AKG is crucial for energy production, amino acid metabolism, DNA repair, and detoxification processes. However, levels of AKG decline sharply as we age, leading to reduced energy production, impaired cellular metabolism, and increased susceptibility to age-related decline.
Supplementing with dietary alpha-ketoglutarate, particularly in its calcium form (Ca-AKG), has shown potential benefits including improved muscle recovery, enhanced DNA methylation, reduced inflammation, and anti-aging effects. Studies have demonstrated that AKG regulates vital biological processes, supporting healthier ageing. Research on alpha-ketoglutarate has sparked growing interest, particularly in its ability to influence lifespan and healthspan. Animal studies have demonstrated that AKG supplementation can extend lifespan and improve vitality, compressing the time spent in poor health.
Calcium alpha-ketoglutarate helps in other important areas as well. It supports bone density, enhances DNA integrity through methylation, and modulates the immune response by reducing inflammation. By promoting collagen production and supporting the synthesis of important amino acids like glutamine and arginine, AKG helps maintain muscle mass, bone strength, and gut health.
With more research being conducted, we're continuing to uncover the full range of benefits of AKG supplementation. While possible side effects exist, such as mild digestive issues in some individuals, the overall safety profile of calcium and alpha-ketoglutarate remains encouraging. Different forms of AKG are available, and ongoing studies will help clarify the best doses and applications for human health.
Whether you're looking to enhance your body's cellular energy, support muscle function, or explore ways to improve longevity, alpha-ketoglutarate may offer valuable benefits. If you're interested in learning more about how AKG could support your health, visit our website at https://longevitybox.co.uk/ for more insights.
FAQ
1. What is the primary benefit of alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation?
Alpha-ketoglutarate is vital for energy production and cellular metabolism. Supplementing with calcium alpha-ketoglutarate can help support longevity, improve muscle health, and enhance metabolic function, making it a key supplement for healthier ageing.
2. How does calcium alpha-ketoglutarate extend lifespan?
Research shows that alpha-ketoglutarate can extend lifespan by an average of 7 months in animal studies. The benefits of Ca-AKG include promoting cellular health, reducing inflammation, and supporting DNA repair, all of which contribute to healthier ageing and increased vitality.
3. Can alpha-ketoglutarate help improve muscle health?
Yes, alpha-ketoglutarate improves muscle function by supporting protein synthesis and stimulating muscle hypertrophy. The use of AKG can aid in muscle recovery and strength, especially for older adults or those engaged in physical training.
4. What are the effects of alpha-ketoglutarate on bone health?
Calcium alpha-ketoglutarate helps maintain bone density and strength by enhancing collagen production. This makes it beneficial for preventing age-related bone density loss and reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
5. What is the recommended dose of alpha-ketoglutarate for longevity?
The typical dose of alpha-ketoglutarate varies, but studies suggest that around 1000 mg to 2000 mg per day can support longevity and improve overall health. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dosage advice when taking alpha-ketoglutarate.
6. How is AKG produced in the body, and why is supplementation necessary?
AKG is produced naturally during the Krebs cycle, where it plays a role in energy metabolism. However, levels of AKG decline with age, which is why supplementation with calcium alpha-ketoglutarate can help maintain optimal levels and support healthy ageing.
7. Can alpha-ketoglutarate improve metabolic health?
Yes, alpha-ketoglutarate increases metabolic efficiency by supporting glucose metabolism and reducing fat mass. The use of AKG has been shown to help with weight management and improve overall metabolic health.