OKG (ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate)

Functions:

• Reduces the breakdown of muscle
• Produces a release of growth hormone

Dietary Sources: Although the amino acids that comprise OKG are present in protein foods such as meat and poultry and fish, the OKG compound is found only in supplements.
The amino acids ornithine and glutamine are combined to form ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate (OKG). OKG has been shown to improve protein retention, wound repair, and immune function in hospitalized patients partly by increasing levels of anabolic (growth-promoting) hormones such as insulin and growth hormone.

References:
Le Boucher J, Cynober LA. Ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate: the puzzle. Nutrition 1998;14:870–3 [review]