Betaine

Buy Betaine: TMG (Trimethylglycine) and Betaine HCl

Betaine is a naturally occurring substance derived from the amino acid glycine, named after the sugar beet (Beta vulgaris), in which it was first discovered. Betaine contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism; this beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 1.5 grams of betaine. In our range, you will find betaine in two forms: as TMG (trimethylglycine) powder and as betaine HCl in capsules.

What is betaine?

Betaine, also known as trimethylglycine (TMG), is a compound made up of the amino acid glycine with three methyl groups. It occurs naturally in the body and in various foods. In the body, betaine plays a role as a so-called methyl donor, where it is involved in the conversion of homocysteine. Betaine contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism; this effect is obtained with a daily intake of 1.5 g of betaine (this applies to TMG products that provide this amount). For supplements, betaine is produced as TMG or as betaine HCl. The label states how much betaine a product provides per serving.

Betaine and homocysteine metabolism

The permitted health claim for betaine is related to its role as a methyl donor. Betaine contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism, a substance that is produced in the body. This beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 1.5 grams of betaine. Importantly, there is a legal warning: an intake of more than 4 grams of betaine per day can increase blood cholesterol levels. Therefore, stay within the recommended amount and do not exceed 4 grams per day. This information is part of the responsible use of betaine and is also stated on the packaging.

TMG (trimethylglycine) and betaine HCl: what is the difference?

Betaine is available in two forms, which differ in composition. TMG (trimethylglycine) is the "pure" form of betaine and is often offered as a powder; this is the form to which the homocysteine claim refers and which is also popular in sports nutrition. Betaine HCl is betaine bound to hydrochloric acid (hydrochloride) and is sometimes combined with the enzyme pepsin. It is therefore important to know which form you are looking for: TMG or betaine HCl.

What foods contain betaine?

Betaine occurs naturally in various foods. The richest sources are sugar beets (and red beets), wheat bran and other whole grains, quinoa and spinach. The name betaine refers directly to the beet, in which the substance was discovered. People get betaine through a varied diet with whole grains and beets, but the amount varies. For those who want to specifically supplement their intake, for example to the 1.5 grams per day associated with the claim, a TMG supplement is a practical option. The label of a supplement states the amount of betaine per serving. Read more about the origin of betaine in our blog post Where does betaine come from? From plant to supplement.

How much betaine per day?

For the permitted health claim, a daily intake of 1.5 grams of betaine (as TMG) applies. Keep the legal upper limit in mind: do not take more than 4 grams of betaine per day, because a higher intake can increase blood cholesterol levels. The dosage per product is stated on the packaging; with powder, you can measure the desired amount with a scoop. Betaine HCl is used in a different, much lower dosage; follow the specific instructions for use. Always follow the instructions on the packaging and ask a doctor or therapist for advice if in doubt or if taking medication.

Buying betaine: what to look for?

When choosing a betaine supplement, the most important question is which form you are looking for. Choose TMG (trimethylglycine), usually as a powder, if you are looking for the form to which the homocysteine claim refers or for use in sports nutrition; then pay attention to the amount per serving in relation to the 1.5 grams per day. Choose betaine HCl (capsules) if you are specifically looking for that form, often combined with pepsin. Also pay attention to purity and the price per serving. Betaine (TMG) is related to the amino acids; for related products, also view our collection Amino Acids.