Trimethylglycine
Betaine-also known as anhydrous betaine or trimethylglycine (TMG)-is a substance made in the body. It is involved in liver function, cell reproduction and helps produce carnitine. It also helps the body metabolize an amino acid called homocysteine. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved betaine for the treatment of genetic diseases that accumulate too much homocysteine in the body.
Scientists have also proposed the use of betaine as a way to reduce homocysteine levels in people without genetic diseases. This is because higher levels of homocysteine are associated with heart disease and stroke. But researchers do not yet know the relationship between high levels of homocysteine and heart disease. It is not clear whether homocysteine itself is harmful, or whether it is just an indicator of increased risk of heart disease.
heart disease
Studies have shown that betaine, along with vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid, helps reduce high levels of homocysteine. Some studies have shown that high levels of homocysteine may promote atherosclerosis (arteriosclerosis).
Betaine supplements may increase cholesterol levels, which may be detrimental to the treatment of any heart disease. If you are at risk of heart disease, your doctor may test your blood homocysteine levels. Ask your doctor if taking supplements of betaine, folic acid, and other B vitamins makes sense for you.
Homocystinuria
Some people have a genetic condition called homocysteinuria, in which homocysteine levels accumulate in the body. As early as their 20s, they had a much higher risk of heart disease and osteoporosis. Betaine supplements are used to lower homocysteine levels in people with this genetic health condition.
Liver disease
Studies in rats indicate that betaine may help prevent harmful fat deposits in the liver. These deposits can be caused by alcoholism, obesity, diabetes, and other causes. Preliminary studies on people showed similar results. More research is needed.
Dry mouth
A study found that toothpaste containing betaine helps relieve dry mouth.
cancer
A study found that a higher intake of betaine can prevent lung cancer by minimizing the adverse effects of smoking. The second suggests that betaine intake may reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Dietary sources
Food sources of betaine include:
beet
broccoli
cereals
shellfish
spinach
Available forms
Betaine supplements are a by-product of sugar beet processing. They come in powder, tablet and capsule forms.
How to take
Pediatrics
Betaine is not recommended for children unless your child's doctor prescribes the treatment of homocystinuria (a genetic disease).
aldult
The recommended dose of betaine depends on the condition being treated. Ask your doctor to help you determine the right dosage for you.
Betaine is usually taken with folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12.
Precaution
Due to potential side effects and drug interactions, you should only take dietary supplements under the supervision of a knowledgeable healthcare provider.
Most of the side effects of betaine are mild, including diarrhea, stomach upset, and nausea.
Betaine can increase total cholesterol levels. People who are overweight, have heart disease, or are at risk of heart disease should not take betaine without consulting the provider.
Patients with kidney disease should not take betaine.
Possible interaction
For people with kidney disease, betaine may interfere with drugs used to lower blood cholesterol levels.
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