Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Alpha-ketoisocaproic acid (KIC) is a keto acid metabolite of the branched-chain amino acid leucine. It has been investigated for its potential role in body building, mainly due to its relationship with leucine, which is known for its anabolic effects and role in muscle protein synthesis. Some supplement formulations marketed to athletes and body builders include KIC, sometimes in combination with other compounds such as HMB (beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate), under the hypothesis that KIC may reduce muscle breakdown or enhance athletic performance.

The scientific evidence supporting KIC supplementation for muscle growth or improved body building outcomes is limited. A few small studies have explored KIC, often in combination with other ingredients. For example, one study found that a combination of KIC and HMB might reduce markers of muscle damage following resistance exercise, but the effects were modest and not consistently replicated. Research specifically isolating KIC (not in combination with HMB or other compounds) is even more sparse. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews of nutritional supplements for athletic performance rarely identify KIC as an ingredient with well-established efficacy.

Overall, while there is a biochemical rationale for KIC potentially supporting muscle metabolism due to its relationship with leucine, direct evidence for its efficacy in body building is weak. The evidence base remains limited, with small effect sizes, and further independent, high-quality studies are required before strong recommendations can be made for its use in this context.

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