Calcium alpha-ketoglutarate (CaAKG) is a supplement that is commonly used to support bone health and muscle function. It is a combination of calcium, an essential mineral for bone health, and alpha-ketoglutarate, an amino acid that plays a role in energy metabolism. While CaAKG can be taken as a supplement, it can also be found in certain foods. In this article, we will explore the foods that contain CaAKG and their potential health benefits.
Foods High in Calcium
Calcium is an essential mineral that is vital for the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth. It is also important for muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. Some of the best food sources of calcium include:
- Dairy products: Milk, yogurt, and cheese are all excellent sources of calcium. One cup of milk contains about 300 milligrams of calcium, while one cup of yogurt contains about 450 milligrams. Cheese is also a good source, with one ounce of cheddar cheese containing about 200 milligrams of calcium.
- Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and collard greens are all good sources of calcium. One cup of cooked spinach contains about 245 milligrams of calcium, while one cup of cooked kale contains about 90 milligrams.
- Fish: Sardines and salmon are both good sources of calcium. Three ounces of sardines contain about 325 milligrams of calcium, while three ounces of salmon contains about 181 milligrams.
- Fortified foods: Many foods, such as cereal, orange juice, and soy milk, are fortified with calcium. Be sure to check the nutrition label to see how much calcium a product contains.
Foods High in Alpha-Ketoglutarate
Alpha-ketoglutarate is an amino acid that is involved in energy metabolism. It is also known to be involved in amino acid synthesis, and also helps in removing toxic substances from the body. Some of the best food sources of alpha-ketoglutarate include:
- Meat and poultry: Chicken, beef, and pork are all good sources of alpha-ketoglutarate. Three ounces of chicken breast contains about 1.5 grams of alpha-ketoglutarate, while three ounces of beef contains about 1.2 grams.
- Fish: Tuna and salmon are also good sources of alpha-ketoglutarate. Three ounces of tuna contains about 1.1 grams, while three ounces of salmon contains about 0.9 grams.
- Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds are all good sources of alpha-ketoglutarate. One ounce of almonds contains about 0.4 grams, while one ounce of walnuts contains about 0.3 grams.
- Dairy products: Milk and yogurt also contain small amounts of alpha-ketoglutarate. One cup of milk contains about 0.1 grams, while one cup of yogurt contains about 0.2 grams.
Benefits of CaAKG
The combination of calcium and alpha-ketoglutarate in CaAKG may provide several potential health benefits. Some studies have suggested that CaAKG may:
- Improve bone density: Calcium is essential for the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth.
- Enhance muscle function: Calcium plays a role in muscle function, which is why it is often recommended to athletes and bodybuilders.
- Support energy metabolism: Alpha-ketoglutarate is involved in energy metabolism, which is the process of converting food into energy.
- Supporting detoxification: Alpha-ketoglutarate is known