Copper Alpha-Ketoglutarate

MineralCopperBest with a meal

What is it

Copper alpha-ketoglutarate is a chelated form of copper bound to alpha-ketoglutaric acid, a Krebs cycle intermediate. It is used in supplements to deliver copper alongside a metabolic substrate.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Copper deficiency

Limited Evidence

Copper supplementation reliably corrects deficiency. The specific alpha-ketoglutarate chelate has limited head-to-head data versus other copper forms.

How it works

Copper is required for enzymes involved in iron metabolism, connective tissue formation, and antioxidant defense (ceruloplasmin, lysyl oxidase, superoxide dismutase). Alpha-ketoglutarate is an intermediate in the citric acid cycle that helps cells generate ATP and serves as a nitrogen carrier in amino acid metabolism. In this chelate, alpha-ketoglutarate acts as a carrier that may improve copper absorption compared to inorganic copper salts. Once absorbed, copper enters the systemic circulation bound to albumin and is delivered to the liver, while alpha-ketoglutarate enters normal metabolic pathways.

Dosage

The RDA for copper is 900 mcg/day for adults, with a UL of 10 mg/day. Most supplements provide 1-2 mg of elemental copper per serving. The dose of copper alpha-ketoglutarate is set to deliver this elemental copper amount; the alpha-ketoglutarate carrier adds extra weight.

When and how to take it

Copper is best taken with food to reduce stomach upset, and separated from high-dose zinc or iron supplements by at least two hours to avoid absorption competition.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Copper alpha-ketoglutarate chelate

An organic copper chelate combining an essential trace mineral with a metabolic intermediate.

Marketed as a well-absorbed organic copper form; direct human comparison data are limited.

Safety

Copper at typical supplemental doses is generally well tolerated. Excess copper (above 10 mg/day) can cause nausea, vomiting, and over time may harm the liver. Single doses above 30 mg can cause acute toxicity. Alpha-ketoglutarate has GRAS-like history with no major safety concerns at normal supplement doses.

Who should be cautious

People with Wilson disease must avoid copper supplements. Those with liver disease, taking zinc supplements, or with hemochromatosis should consult a clinician before use.

Interactions

High doses of zinc, iron, or molybdenum can reduce copper absorption. Copper can in turn interfere with zinc status if supplemented chronically without balance. Patients on penicillamine or certain chelating drugs should not take copper supplements without medical advice.

Food sources

Beef liver

Amount
12 mg per 3 oz
%DV
1333%

Oysters

Amount
4.85 mg per 3 oz
%DV
539%

Dark chocolate

Amount
0.5 mg per 1 oz
%DV
56%

Cashews

Amount
0.6 mg per 1 oz
%DV
67%

Frequently asked questions

Why is copper paired with alpha-ketoglutarate?⌄

Alpha-ketoglutarate is used as a chelating carrier intended to improve copper absorption and reduce GI irritation compared with inorganic copper salts.

Can I take copper alpha-ketoglutarate every day?⌄

Daily doses below the 10 mg upper limit for total copper are generally considered safe. Most supplements supply 1-2 mg, which is appropriate for most adults.

References

Copper Alpha-Ketoglutarate on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Copper Alpha-Ketoglutarate (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Copper Alpha-Ketoglutarate with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

Coming to App Store
Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.