AAKG, arginine alpha ketoglutarate is an advanced form of the amino acid arginine because it is bonded with alpha-ketoglutarate that is a key intermediate in the Krebs energy cycle and also in amino acid metabolism. AAKG has been shown to promote growth hormone and insulin secretion resulting in anabolic effects. Arginine is a nitric oxide booster: as a precursor to nitric oxide, it dilates blood vessels leading to great pumps, vascularity, and it may increase oxygen levels to the heart and other muscles.