Is Calcium AKG Good for Muscle Recovery?

Calcium is an alkaline earth metal and plays an important role in muscle contraction, nerve transmission and blood clotting. Alpha-ketoglutarate is an organic compound produced and consumed by the cells in our body as part of the Krebs cycle. This cycle is thought to enable the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy source for our cells. 

Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate, otherwise known as calcium AKG, is a chelated compound, where calcium and AKG are bound together to aid bioavailability, i.e., absorbability. 

Other than its ability to support bone, liver and brain health (read our post on those benefits, here), some other benefits of Calcium AKG include cell production, cardiovascular health, muscle health, kidney health and weight management. 

This post will cover Calcium AKG’s benefits on muscle health and recovery, including the calcium AKG studies and scientific studies on the supplement.

Calcium and Muscle Contraction

As we age, our muscle and bone strength tend to decline. Ca-AKG can potentially help support their function in adults over 40 by preventing protein deterioration in muscle, improving bone tissue formation and reducing protein breakdown. 

This is because AKG is a precursor to a variety of essential amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, meaning it can stimulate protein creation. Over 25 per cent of AKG is converted into two particular amino acids, proline and glutamine, needed for collagen production, which makes up one-third of all protein in our bodies and which helps support our bones, skin and muscle health. 

Studies have shown AKG’s effectiveness in protecting against muscle atrophy. Skeletal muscle atrophy due to excessive protein degradation is the main cause of muscle dysfunction, fatigue and a weakening of athletic ability. An animal study found that AKG may protect against muscle atrophy and dysfunction by reducing corticosterone-induced protein degradation. 

Calcium and muscle recovery was another hypothesis studied that had positive results. A study conducted on 59 postoperative patients also found that AKG supplementation prevented the decrease in muscle protein synthesis. Other studies have found similar results, where Alpha-Ketoglutarate can help prevent the reduction of amino acids in muscle tissue after surgery that limits our glucose intake, which is important for patient recovery. This means AKG is incredibly important for the healing of muscle tissue. 

Calcium AKG may even help promote our physical performance and support muscle recovery after exercise, making it a great supplement for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. It’s even been speculated that oral AKG supplements may help improve strength or mass-mass gains by weightlifters. 

Check out other exciting research behind Calcium AKG, compiled easily on our website, here.

The Future of Calcium AKG

Calcium AKG is reportedly being researched by NASA for its ability to preserve bone density during astronauts’ periods of microgravity.

There are also some exciting calcium AKG studies surrounding anti-aging and longevity! Keep an eye out for our post on this topic.

Calcium AKG Supplements

When taken orally, Ca AKG is considered possibly safe to use for up to 3 years and up to 8 weeks when applied to the skin.

As for Ca AKG dosage and when to take Ca AKG, it’s recommended to take 1,000mg in the morning with or without food. There are currently no known significant concerns or interactions with taking calcium AKG and other supplements/medications. 

Natural alpha-ketoglutarate food sources include animal products like meat, fish and dairy. 

As always, consult with your medical professional before taking any new supplements and stay up to date with new research.