Nutritional Supplement

Nitric Oxide

Also indexed as: AAKG, Arginine AKG (NO2 Compound), NO2

Nitric oxide is the popular name for AAKG (arginine alpha-ketoglutarate), a compound made from the amino acid L-arginine and alpha-ketoglutarate, a substance formed in the body’s energy-generating process. AAKG is a popular supplement among bodybuilders and other athletes because of claims that it increases production of nitric oxide in muscles. Nitric oxide is known to have blood-flow-enhancing effects,1 which could in theory increase the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to exercising muscle. While L-arginine by itself is known to increase nitric oxide production, no research has been done to show that AAKG does the same. However, double-blind trials of AAKG suggest it improves some measures of strength and power resulting from weight training.2,3

References

1. Cylwik D, Mogielnicki A, Buczko W. L-arginine and cardiovascular system. Pharmacol Rep2005;57:14-22 [review].

2. Campbell B, Baer J, Roberts M, et al. Effects of arginine alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation on body composition and training adaptations. Sports Nutrition Review Journal 2004:1(1):S10 [abstract].

3. Campbell B, Roberts M, Kerksick C, et al. Pharmacokinetics, safety, and effects on exercise performance of l-arginine alpha-ketoglutarate in trained adult men. Nutrition2006;22:872-81.

4. Campbell B, Baer J, Roberts M, et al. Effects of arginine alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation on body composition and training adaptations. Sports Nutrition Review Journal 2004:1(1):S10 [abstract].

5. Vacanti T, Campbell B, Baer J, et al. Effects of arginine alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation on markers of catabolism and health status. Sports Nutr Rev J2004;1:S10-S11 [abstract].

6. Nassar EI, Bowden RG, Campbell B, et al. Effects of arginine alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation on quality of life. Sports Nutr Rev J 2004;1:S12-S13 [abstract].

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.