Trimethylglycine (TMG), also known as betaine, is used to support cardiovascular health and may benefit athletic performance.
Trimethylglycine (TMG), also known as betaine, is a naturally occurring compound primarily extracted from sugar beets. It functions as a methyl donor, crucial for processes such as homocysteine metabolism, creatine synthesis, and liver function. Supplementation with TMG is often used to support cardiovascular health by lowering homocysteine levels and is being researched for its potential benefits in athletic performance and liver health. Common dosages range from 500-6000mg daily. While generally safe, gastrointestinal distress is possible, and rarely, it can exacerbate or trigger trimethylaminuria.
Key Information
Inside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
500-6000mg daily, often divided into multiple doses
Source Type
natural
Production Process
Trimethylglycine is primarily extracted from sugar beets. It can also be produced synthetically, although extraction from natural sources is more common.
Use Type
Inside BodyPotential Benefits
This benefit supports liver function by promoting detoxification, cell regeneration, and reducing inflammation. A healthy liver is essential for various metabolic processes and overall well-being.
Cardiovascular health ensures efficient blood circulation by maintaining healthy heart and blood vessels. Benefits include reduced risk of heart disease and stroke through improved blood flow and heart function.
Methylfolate reduces homocysteine levels by converting it back into methionine within the methionine cycle. Elevated homocysteine is linked to cardiovascular and other health risks.
Alpha-GPC may enhance athletic performance by increasing power output and improving neuromuscular efficiency. It may also stimulate growth hormone secretion, aiding in muscle growth and recovery.
Betaine helps reduce liver fat accumulation (NAFLD) by promoting VLDL export and improving lipid metabolism, supporting liver health.
Possible Side Effects
Gastrointestinal distress involves digestive discomfort like bloating, diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Severity varies based on individual factors and can be triggered by irritation or inflammation of the digestive tract.
Trimethylaminuria (TMAU) is a metabolic disorder causing a fishy odor due to the body's inability to process trimethylamine. TMG supplementation can worsen or trigger TMAU in susceptible individuals.
Scientific Evidence
Studies on homocysteine reduction, athletic performance (e.g., improvement in power output), and liver function (e.g., reducing fat accumulation in the liver). Search PubMed and Google Scholar for 'Trimethylglycine' or 'Betaine' and relevant keywords (homocysteine, athletic performance, liver health).
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