TMG | Betaine anhydrous

TMG | Betaine anhydrous

Properties: There are numerous positive effects of TMG on the human body, although most of them are related to the strengthening of the overall condition of the organism. This substance effectively supports the functioning of different systems and organs. It helps, for instance, to neutralize toxins in the liver and that way, it contributes to the protection of the liver cells against harmful compounds. Due to that, it facilitates metabolic processes and contributes to the detoxification of the body. In addition, it facilitates the natural production of antioxidants which help to get rid of toxins. Moreover, betaine is highly effective in preventing serious diseases of the cardiovascular system such as atherosclerosis. 

Athletes can also be interested in supplementing TMG. It is known that this substance positively affects strength and regeneration of muscles. After taking trimethylglycine we simply have more strength during exercise and we don’t get tired so quickly. For that reason TMG may turn out to be remarkably useful during physical training. Especially when there’s another series of exercises to do but you’re just panting on the floor…

The protective effect of TMG is not only observed in the liver. It turns out that this substance has a significant impact on the nervous system. First of all, it protects neurons from the harmful effects of homocysteine. Excess of this amino acid is commonly dangerous for fragile cellular structures in the brain. That way, TMG helps to maintain the proper functioning of neurons and thus supports intellectual capacity. In addition, it effectively prevents neurodegenerative diseases. Research is currently being conducted on the usage of TMG for treatment of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. It is worth noting that betaine is used in the production of anti-wrinkle and moisturizing creams. This fact is the confirmation that TMG can effectively support regeneration and cleansing of the body.

Occurrence: Trimethylglycine is produced in the human body, mainly in the liver and kidneys. It is also present in food. The richest sources of TMG are products of plant origin like goji berries, wheat germ, wheat bran, bread (white, whole-wheat and wholegrain), beetroot, spinach, potatoes, sweet potatoes, avocado. Among products of animal origin we can mention: fish (tuna, salmon), seafood (shrimps, clams), meat (beef, mutton), milk and cheese (brie, blue cheese).

Biochemistry: Trimethylglycine (TMG, betaine) is an organic chemical compound considered one of the betains. It’s a derivative of the amino acid glycine (Gly). TMG  is chemically named glycine betaine and it is present as the zwitterion (inner salt) – it contains a positively-charged group (cationic fragment R3N+ ) as well as negatively-charged one (anionic fragment; -COO–). They are located in different parts of the same molecule. Therefore, betaine is a neutral chemical compound. This soluble in water substance is quickly absorbed from the intestines to the blood circulatory system and then accumulates in tissues. As a carrier of glycine, it’s a precursor of glutathione (GSH) – a natural antioxidant that protects the cells against damage caused by reactive oxygen species (free radicals, peroxides) and toxins. In the human body it is synthesized in the liver and kidneys from the choline. TMG is, above all, the donor of the methyl group (-CH3) in the methylation processes – the most important processes that occur in the body. That way, it promotes the conversion of homocysteine to methionine (that possesses cardioprotective  properties) and prevents the excessive increase in the level of homocysteine that has negative effects especially on the cardiovascular system. What is more, TMG contributes to the production of S-adenosyl methionine (SAM-e) which takes part in the synthesis of neurotransmitters – dopamine and serotonin. It also activates the synthesis of phospholipids that are the building blocks of cell membranes. Moreover, betaine causes the increase in the level of nitric oxide that is responsible for the widening of vessels and additionally enhances the secretion of the growth hormone which supports regeneration of muscle tissue.

Fun fact: Trimethylglycine regulates water balance in the cells of the body. It helps them to maintain adequate hydration and increases their resistance to the unfavourable environmental conditions (like low temperatures or high saline level).