What is Ca-AKG (Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate) and how does it work?

Ca-AKG, or Calcium Alpha Ketoglutarate, is a compound crucial for the body's cellular processes, combining calcium and alpha-ketoglutarate, a crucial intermediate in the Krebs cycle responsible for energy generation in aerobic organisms. This discovery led to the creation of calcium AKG, integrating the vital roles of AKG and calcium in nutritional science. By combining the ancient understanding of calcium's importance with the significance of AKG, calcium AKG offers potential advancements in human health by enhancing ATP production and bioavailability through its chelated form, thereby integrating chemistry and biology for improved physiological benefits.

Potential Benefits of Ca-AKG 

Health benefits of Ca-AKG supplementation include:

Autophagy

Ca-AKG plays a vital role in facilitating autophagy, which is the body's natural mechanism for eliminating and repurposing damaged or malfunctioning cells and cellular components. Autophagy is essential for preserving the overall health and functionality of our cells, tissues, and organs. With age, our body's capacity for autophagy diminishes, leading to accelerated ageing and heightened susceptibility to age-related ailments. Hence, it is imperative to bolster the autophagy process within our bodies, with Ca-AKG serving as a valuable agent in this endeavour.

Longevity

Numerous research findings have demonstrated a notable correlation between the intake of Ca-AKG supplements and longevity. For instance, a study published in Cell Metabolism revealed that mice supplemented with Ca-AKG experienced a 12% extension in their lifespan. Likewise, investigations conducted on roundworms and fruit flies yielded encouraging outcomes, with roundworms showing a remarkable 50% lifespan extension and fruit flies exhibiting a 15% increase. This substantial enhancement in lifespan is attributed to Ca-AKG's ability to stimulate autophagy and its positive influence on cellular health and functionality.

Cellular Energy Balance

Besides its involvement in autophagy, Ca-AKG also triggers the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which is vital for sustaining cellular energy equilibrium. This protein oversees and adjusts cellular energy levels, ensuring they are sufficient for optimal functionality. Through AMPK activation, Ca-AKG enhances energy balance and aids in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, which are crucial for overall well-being and influence the ageing process directly.

Potent Antioxidant

Oxidative stress, marked by the buildup of harmful substances such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), plays a substantial role in ageing and cellular harm. Ca-AKG functions as an antioxidant by counteracting ROS, potentially hindering ageing-related mechanisms. Moreover, Ca-AKG serves as a precursor to glutamate, vital for generating glutathione, a robust antioxidant in the body. By promoting the synthesis of this antioxidant, Ca-AKG reinforces the body's inherent protection against oxidative damage.

Supports Bone & Muscle Health 

As we grow older, there's a natural decline in bone and muscle strength. Ca-AKG plays a crucial role in preserving bone and muscle health by facilitating collagen synthesis, an essential protein for these tissues. Collagen provides support and maintains the integrity of our bones, skin, and muscles, ensuring their strength and vitality.

Cardiovascular & Brain Health

The heart and brain are crucial organs prone to oxidative stress-induced damage. Fortunately, Ca-AKG's antioxidant properties safeguard their integrity. Research indicates Ca-AKG's potential to enhance blood vessel elasticity, thus supporting cardiovascular well-being while also aiding cognitive function maintenance.

Interesting Facts and Future Research

• Space Exploration
  NASA has explored calcium AKG's efficacy in preserving bone density in microgravity, showcasing its diverse potential applications.

• Anti-Ageing and Longevity
  Early findings in anti-ageing research are promising, though it's too early to label Calcium AKG as a 'fountain of youth.

Recommended Dosage and Timing

Optimal Dosage
Adults can take 300mg to 1000mg of Ca-AKG daily. 
Decode Age's Ca-AKG contains 500mg per serving.

Method of Consumption

Take 1 capsule in the morning after your breakfast or lunch, unless directed otherwise by your healthcare provider. 

Age Factor

Given that the body's production of AKG decreases with age, older adults might benefit more from Ca-AKG supplementation, especially in terms of bone, muscle, and metabolic health​​.

Are Ca-AKG Supplements Safe?

Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate (Ca-AKG) supplements have attracted attention for their potential health benefits, especially in the context of ageing and energy metabolism. Understanding their safety profile is crucial for informed usage. Here's what current research and guidelines suggest:

• General Safety: Studies on Ca-AKG have generally shown it to be safe for human consumption, with no significant adverse effects reported at doses up to 4.5 grams taken over periods as long as three years​​.
• Longevity and Health Research: Research has primarily been conducted on animal models, where Ca-AKG has shown promising results in extending lifespan and improving health span. While these studies are encouraging, it's important to note that human studies are still limited, and more research is needed to fully understand the effects on human health​​​​.

Individual Considerations

As with any supplement, individual health conditions, existing medications, and overall health status should be considered. People with specific health conditions or those taking certain medications should consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, including Ca-AKG.

Who should avoid taking Ca-AKG?

Avoid taking Ca-AKG if you are on calcium channel blocks or have existing kidney issues. Consult your physician before taking this supplement if you have bleeding disorders, are on blood-thinning medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Conclusion

Ca-AKG, with its diverse functions in energy metabolism, antioxidant protection, and promotion of organ well-being, stands out as a noteworthy substance in the fields of ageing and lifespan extension. Although most investigations have been carried out on animals, the outcomes are promising, indicating potential advantages for human health and ageing. With ongoing research, Ca-AKG offers hope for individuals seeking to maintain their health throughout ageing.

Reference

Alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation and BiologicaL agE in middle-aged adults (ABLE)—intervention study protocol.
(Sandalova, E., Goh, J., Lim, Z. X., Lim, Z., Barardo, D., Dorajoo, R., . . . Maier, A. B. (2023). Alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation and BiologicaL agE in middle-aged adults (ABLE)—intervention study protocol. GeroScience, 45(5), 2897–2907.)

FAQs

1) What is the difference between AKG and Ca-AKG?

The main difference between AKG and Ca-AKG lies in absorption and potential benefits. Ca-AKG, unlike AKG, is absorbed more slowly in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to a gradual release into the bloodstream. This prolonged absorption allows Ca-AKG to exert effects over a longer period, potentially enhancing its beneficial impact. Thus, while both offer advantages, Ca-AKG's slower absorption kinetics and sustained action may provide additional benefits compared to AKG.

2) What does Ca-AKG do for the body?

Ca-AKG plays a crucial role in the body's energy production through the Krebs cycle. As a nitrogen scavenger, it aids in cellular detoxification. Furthermore, Ca-AKG serves as a precursor for glutamate and glutamine, essential for protein synthesis. This promotes muscle growth and inhibits protein breakdown, aiding in muscle maintenance and repair. Overall, Ca-AKG supports cellular energy metabolism and muscle health, which is crucial for optimal bodily function.

3) Can Ca- AKG cause diarrhoea?

Studies have shown that calcium AKG, taken at doses of up to 4.5 grams daily for three years, generally doesn't lead to significant adverse effects. Another study found 6 grams to be safe for human use. However, minor side effects such as nausea, diarrhoea, and stomach distress have been reported in some rare cases.

4) Is calcium AKG a calcium supplement?

No, calcium AKG isn't just a calcium supplement. It aids in delivering AKG into the body efficiently and restores calcium levels in the blood. It also binds excess phosphate, excreting it as waste, thus rebalancing calcium and phosphate levels in the body.