Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Ornithine ketoglutarate (OKG) is used in clinical nutrition, particularly to support healing and recovery after surgery. The scientific rationale is rooted in OKG’s metabolic effects: it serves as a source of both ornithine and alpha-ketoglutarate, which are involved in protein synthesis, ammonia detoxification, and energy production. Several studies, mostly small-scale or conducted in specific populations (such as the elderly or critically ill), have shown that OKG supplementation can reduce muscle protein breakdown, enhance nitrogen retention, and potentially accelerate wound healing after surgery or trauma. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews (e.g., Cerra 1990, Déchelotte et al. 1991) suggest moderate benefit in terms of reduced hospital stay and improved nitrogen balance, especially in malnourished or catabolic patients. However, evidence is less robust in well-nourished patients, and some trials have not found significant clinical benefit in terms of wound healing rates or postoperative complications. Overall, while there is a scientific basis and moderate clinical evidence for OKG’s use in surgical recovery, the data are not uniformly strong, and its routine use is not universally recommended in guidelines. Further large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials are warranted to clarify its role.

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