Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG): Benefits, Dosage, Safety & Longevity

Here’s a Wellness Roll Up on Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) — the longevity molecule that’s quietly becoming a big deal in the anti-aging world.

At Wellness Roll Up, we try to keep you on the cutting edge of new molecules starting to buzz. If AKG is new to you—you probably heard about it here first!

🔍 What You'll Learn about AKG

• What is AKG and why it matters

• How it may extend lifespan and boost mitochondria

• Best forms and dosage protocols

• Potential risks and safety considerations

• What top scientists are saying about it

🧬 Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG): The Metabolic Key You’re Not Taking?

Originally published July 2025. Last updated August 2025.

TL;DR
Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) is a naturally occurring molecule in your body’s Krebs cycle (a key energy production pathway). It’s gaining attention for its potential to extend lifespan, support muscle health, improve bone density, and boost mitochondrial function—especially as we age.
👉 Not a magic pill—but possibly a serious longevity ally.

⏳ What is Alpha-Ketoglutarate?

Alpha-Ketoglutarate is a molecule your body produces as part of the Krebs cycle, the process that turns food into energy (ATP). AKG plays a critical role in:

• Amino acid metabolism

• Mitochondrial function

• Immune response regulation

• Detoxification and nitrogen balance

But here's the issue: after your 40s, AKG levels can decline by 80–90%, making supplementation an attractive option for those seeking to counteract aging-related decline.

🔬 AKG and Longevity: What the Research Shows

🐭 1. Lifespan Extension in Mice

A 2020 study in Cell Metabolism showed that Ca-AKG increased median lifespan by ~10% and reduced frailty in mice—without affecting maximum lifespan.

🧬 2. Epigenetic Rejuvenation

AKG helps regulate enzymes like TETs and JmjC-domain histone demethylases, which can reverse age-related DNA methylation changes—key for youthful gene expression.

🦴 3. Bone and Collagen Support

AKG promotes proline and other precursors needed for collagen synthesis, which supports bone density, joint flexibility, and skin health.

💪 4. Performance and Muscle Recovery

Used by athletes to improve endurance and delay fatigue, AKG reduces post-exercise soreness by buffering ammonia and supporting muscle repair.

🔥 5. Anti-Inflammaging

AKG lowers systemic inflammation and slows the progression of age-related diseases by reducing IL-6 and TNF-alpha signaling.

🗣️ Who’s Talking About It?

• Dr. Matt Kaeberlein, co-founder of the Dog Aging Project, brought up AKG on the Tim Ferriss podcast, highlighting its role in promoting healthy aging in both dogs and humans.

• Dr. David Sinclair has discussed AKG as part of the longevity conversation, particularly for its role in mitochondrial health and epigenetic maintenance.

• Dr. Rhonda Patrick has highlighted its function in metabolism and aging pathways in her scientific content, though she hasn’t publicly endorsed or disclosed personal use.

• AKG was mentioned on Peter Attia’s podcast during a broader conversation about rapamycin, NAD, and metformin. Read our breakdown here →

💊 How to Supplement with AKG

• Preferred form: Calcium AKG (Ca-AKG) — used in most longevity studies.

• Dose: 1 gram per day is common; some protocols suggest splitting into two doses.

• Timing: Fasted, in the morning, often paired with other longevity molecules.

• Stack it with:

  • Vitamin D (bone health synergy)

  • Magnesium (enzyme activation)

  • Collagen or glycine (skin/joint support)

🧠 Human data is still developing. Use as part of a broader anti-aging strategy, not as a standalone solution.

⚠️ Who Should Avoid AKG?

• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals (limited safety data)

• People with certain cancers — AKG modulates cell metabolism

• Anyone with chronic kidney disease — due to nitrogen/ammonia interactions

• Those on medications for immune modulation — consult your doctor first

🧭 Where to Buy the Best AKG Supplements

Look for brands that:

• Use Calcium AKG (not Arginine AKG unless for athletic use)

• Offer third-party lab testing

• Have transparent labeling (no proprietary blends)

Popular longevity stacks include:

• Rejuvant LifeTabs (clinically tested in aging research)

• DoNotAge Ca-AKG

• ProHealth Longevity Ca-AKG

Prices range from $40–80 per month depending on dosage and brand.

⚖️ AKG Pros & Cons

📊 AKG vs NMN vs Rapamycin: A Quick Comparison

🔮 The Future of AKG

Researchers are exploring AKG’s role in:

• Biological age reversal (via methylation clocks)

• Senescence suppression (cellular “zombie” removal)

• Gut microbiome modulation (early data shows promise)

Expect more human studies and optimized delivery methods (e.g., liposomal AKG, time-release capsules) in the next few years.

❓ AKG FAQ 

Q: What is Alpha-Ketoglutarate used for?
A: AKG supports energy production, collagen synthesis, mitochondrial health, and may extend lifespan and reduce age-related inflammation.

Q: What's the best form of AKG to take?
A: Calcium AKG (Ca-AKG) is most commonly used in longevity studies and preferred for anti-aging purposes.

Q: Is AKG safe?
A: Early studies show it is well-tolerated in healthy adults, but those with cancer, kidney issues, or who are pregnant should consult a doctor.

Q: Can AKG help me live longer?
A: In mice, Ca-AKG extended lifespan by ~10%. Human data is still emerging, but it shows promise for extending healthspan.

Q: When should I take AKG?
A: Most people take 1 gram daily, fasted in the morning, often alongside Vitamin D or collagen.

Q: What’s the difference between Ca-AKG and Arginine AKG?
A: Ca-AKG is used for longevity. Arginine AKG is more common in athletic supplements and nitric oxide boosters.

🔁 Stay young, stay curious.
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— The Wellness Roll Up Team