Trimethylglycine

Also known as:
  • TMG
  • Betaine
  • Glycine Betaine
  • Oxyneurine

Trimethylglycine Description:

Trimethylglycine (TMG), also known as betaine, is a naturally occurring compound found in various plant and animal sources. It is a derivative of the amino acid glycine and contains three methyl groups, which play a crucial role in its biological functions. TMG functions as a methyl donor in the body, contributing to a process called methylation. Methylation is involved in various cellular functions, including DNA repair, gene expression regulation, and the synthesis of neurotransmitters.

Most Notable Benefits:

  • Supports athletic performance: TMG supplementation has been shown to improve physical performance, particularly in strength and power-based activities. It achieves this by reducing the accumulation of homocysteine and increasing creatine synthesis in the body, resulting in enhanced muscle strength and endurance.
  • Promotes cardiovascular health: By donating methyl groups, TMG helps convert homocysteine to methionine, which may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases associated with high homocysteine levels.
  • Supports liver function: TMG is known to protect the liver from damage by promoting the production of S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), a compound essential for liver detoxification processes.
  • Anti-aging properties: TMG may support healthy aging by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting cellular health, and enhancing DNA repair mechanisms.

Known Conflicts or Potential Isssues:

  • TMG supplementation may cause gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps in some individuals.
  • Individuals with kidney disease or taking medication for kidney-related issues should consult a healthcare professional before using TMG, as it may increase the risk of kidney damage.
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before using TMG.

Why Dr. Sinclair takes TRIMETHYLGLYCINE daily:

In his book “Lifespan: Why We Age and Why We Don’t Have To,” Dr. David Sinclair does not reference taking TMG.  That being said, it is still important addition to an NAD+ boosting agent, as TMG supports the body’s methylation processes, which are crucial for maintaining cellular health and promoting longevity. TMG’s ability to reduce homocysteine levels and support DNA repair mechanisms are some of the reasons why this ingredient should be included in your daily regimen.

REPUTABLE SOURCES:

  • Cholewa, J. M., Wyszczelska-Rokiel, M., Glowacki, R., Jakubowski, H., Matthews, T., Wood, R., … & Paolone, V. (2013). Effects of betaine on body composition, performance, and homocysteine thiolactone. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 10(1), 39. Link
  • Craig, S. A. (2004). Betaine in human nutrition. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 80(3), 539-549. Link
  • Schwab, U., Törrönen, A., Meririnne, E., Saarinen, M., Alfthan, G., Aro, A., & Uusitupa, M. (2002). Orally administered betaine has an acute and dose-dependent effect on serum betaine and plasma homocysteine concentrations in healthy humans. The Journal of nutrition, 132(1), 34-38. Link
  • Detopoulou, P., Panagiotakos, D. B., Antonopoulou, S., Pitsavos, C., & Stefanadis, C. (2008). Dietary choline and betaine intakes in relation to concentrations of inflammatory markers in healthy adults: the ATTICA study. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 87(2), 424-430. Link
  • Lever, M., Slow, S., McGregor, D. O., & Dellow, W. J. (2004). The betaine content of New Zealand foods and estimated intake in the New Zealand diet. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 17(6), 749-763. Link

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