Betaine, also known as trimethylglycine or TMG, is a nutrient found in various foods, including spinach, quinoa, and beetroot. As a dietary supplement, it is obtained in a highly pure form from sugar beets (Beta vulgaris) and is considered to have no side effects. In recent years, betaine has increasingly come into focus in longevity research due to its various health benefits and is now an indispensable part of a balanced longevity routine.
Betaine and Methylation
Betaine acts as a methyl donor in the body, meaning it assists in biochemical processes such as DNA methylation. DNA methylation plays a key role in gene expression, the process by which DNA information is translated into cellular structures and functions. Disruptions in this process are associated with various diseases, including cancer¹.
Betaine and Homocysteine
Studies show that betaine effectively reduces homocysteine in blood plasma, thus contributing to the prevention of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Homocysteine is an intermediate product of cell metabolism which, in excessively high concentrations, is associated with an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes mellitus. Betaine methylates homocysteine to methionine, thereby reducing homocysteine levels in the blood².
Betaine and Liver Health
As a detoxifying organ, the liver plays an important role in healthy aging. Scientific studies show that betaine protects the liver from harmful substances and helps to reduce excessive fat accumulation in the liver (so-called fatty liver)³.
Betaine and Cell Health
As a so-called osmolyte, betaine helps balance cellular fluids and maintain cell volume, which makes cells more resilient and reduces damage and inflammation⁴.
Betaine and Muscle Strength
Betaine can increase physical performance and reduce body fat by increasing creatine production in the body. Creatine is a compound that contributes to muscle contraction, which is why betaine is very popular among athletes⁵.
Betaine and NAD+
When NAD+ boosters such as Nicotinamide Riboside are taken, they should be combined with methyl donors like betaine, as NAD+ boosters consume methyl groups. Researchers assume that this can indirectly help to better maintain NAD+ levels⁶.
