Ornithine Alpha-Ketoglutarate
Uses
The amino acids ornithine and glutamine are combined to form ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate (OKG).
What Are Star Ratings? Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
3 StarsReliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2 StarsContradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1 StarFor an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Why |
|---|
2 Stars Wound Healing 10 to 30 grams daily | Supplementing with OKG has been shown to significantly improve wound healing and decrease the length of hospital stays. Preliminary and controlled studies of people with severe burns and other types of injuries showed that supplementation with 10–30 grams of (OKG) per day significantly improved wound healing and decreased the length of hospital stays. Improved healing from major trauma and surgery has also been demonstrated with oral supplements including several grams per day of glutamine. |
1 Star Athletic Performance Refer to label instructions | Ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate (OKG) is believed to facilitate muscle growth by enhancing the body’s release of anabolic hormones, but this is based on effects seen in hospitalized and elderly people, not published research. (OKG) is formed from the amino acids ornithine and glutamine and is believed to facilitate muscle growth by enhancing the body’s release of anabolic hormones. While this effect has been found in studies on hospitalized patients and elderly people, no studies on muscle growth in athletes using OKG have been published. |
How It Works
How to Use It
Optimal levels remain unknown, though 10 grams per day has been used in clinical trials.
Where to Find It
Although the amino acids that comprise OKG are present in protein foods such as meat and poultry and fish, the OKG compound is found only in supplements.
Possible Deficiencies
A deficiency of OKG has not been reported.
Interactions
Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds
At the time of writing, there were no well-known supplement or food interactions with this supplement.
Interactions with Medicines
As of the last update, we found no reported interactions between this supplement and medicines. It is possible that unknown interactions exist. If you take medication, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.
The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.
Side Effects
Side Effects
At the time of writing, there were no well-known side effects caused by this supplement.
