Glutamine alpha-ketoglutarate (GAKG) combines the amino acid glutamine with alpha-ketoglutarate, an intermediate in the Krebs cycle. Both components have been individually studied for their roles in metabolism, tissue repair, and recovery after illness or surgery. Glutamine, in particular, is considered a "conditionally essential" amino acid during periods of physiological stress, such as trauma, infection, or recovery (convalescence). There is moderate scientific evidence that glutamine supplementation can help preserve muscle mass, support immune function, and improve nitrogen balance in hospitalized or critically ill patients. Alpha-ketoglutarate has also been investigated for potential benefits in protein metabolism and tissue healing.

However, direct evidence specifically for the combination of glutamine and alpha-ketoglutarate (as GAKG) in convalescence is limited. Most clinical studies have focused on glutamine alone or as part of parenteral nutrition in patients recovering from surgery, trauma, or burns. These studies suggest some positive effects on recovery time, infection rates, and muscle preservation. The addition of alpha-ketoglutarate is theorized to further support anabolic processes and cellular energy, but human trials are sparse.

In summary, while there is a scientific rationale and some supporting data—primarily for glutamine—evidence specifically for GAKG in convalescence is limited and not robust. The overall level of evidence is low to moderate (rated 2/5), with more research needed to validate its efficacy for this use.