Alternative Medicine
The following information is specific for alternative and complementary medicine.
For additional evidence-based information on diseases, conditions, symptoms,
diagnosis, treatment and wellness issues, continue searching the
Healthwise Knowledgebase.
Also indexed as:
TMG
Betaine (trimethylglycine) functions very closely with choline, folic
acid,
vitamin B12, and a form of the amino acid methionine known as
S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe).1, 2 All of these compounds
function as "methyl donors." They carry and donate methyl molecules to
facilitate necessary chemical processes. The donation of methyl groups by
betaine is very important to proper liver function, cellular replication, and
detoxification reactions. Betaine also plays a role in the manufacture of
carnitine and serves to protect the kidneys from damage.3 Betaine is closely related to choline. The difference is that
choline (tetramethylglycine) has four methyl groups attached to it. When choline
donates one of these groups to another molecule, it becomes betaine (trimethylglycine).
If betaine donates one of its methyl groups, then it becomes dimethylglycine.
Where is it found?
Dietary sources of betaine include fish, beets, and legumes. Betaine is most widely available as betaine hydrochloride (betaine-HCl), but that form is used primarily as a source of hydrochloric acid for people with hypochlorhydria (low stomach acid). The forms used specifically to provide betaine are betaine citrate and betaine aspartate. These forms have also been used to improve liver function.
Reliable and relatively
consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory,
insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health
benefit. An herb is primarily
supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or
minimal health benefit.
For people with alcohol-induced fatty liver, the recommended amount for betaine citrate or betaine aspartate supplementation is 1,000 to 2,000 mg three times daily. Lower amounts are often used as nutritional support for general liver health, although use of betaine in this manner has not undergone clinical research.
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires August 2007.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here.
Reliable and relatively
consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
