Ornithine Alpha Ketoglutarate (OKG) Supplement - Precursor of Growth Hormone

Ornithine alpha ketoglutarate (OKG) is a compound that combines two molecules of the amino acid ornithine with one molecule of alpha ketoglutaric acid, an important component in the Krebs cycle. As a precursor of growth hormone, ornithine is twice as effective as arginine. OKG supplementation increases production of GH (growth hormone) and of IGF-1, an active, easy-to-measure derivative of GH.

What are the benefits associated with OKG supplementation?

• OKG has been used to promote growth in children of abnormally small stature (1).
• It also slows down loss of muscle mass in hospitalized patients and accelerates healing of serious burns (2).
• It increases protein synthesis and protects against muscular catabolism and is therefore particularly beneficial to sports enthusiasts and anyone wishing to promote their production of growth hormone.
• Studies show that OKG is particularly active in the mechanisms of ammonia detoxification: it combines with the ammonia produced during muscular exercise and thus improves recovery, helping to prevent cramps and stiffness.
• OKG is also an effective inhibitor of protein glycation (the process in which sugar molecules bond to proteins by 'cross-linking': these non-functional structures accelerate the aging process).

1. Monkorzel, Goulet et al., Growth retardation in children receiving long term total parenteral nutrition: effects of ornithin alpha ketoglutarate, Am J Clin Nutr, 60(3): 408-13.1974 Sep.
2. De Bandt, Coudray-Lucas et al, a randomized controlled trial of the influence of the mode of enteral ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate administration in burn patients, J Nutr, 128(3):563-9 1998 Mar.