About this ingredient
Ingredients
Trimethylglycine (TMG), also known as betaine, is a naturally occurring compound derived from glycine. It is found in foods including beets, spinach, and whole grains and functions as a methyl donor in human metabolism. TMG supplements may provide betaine anhydrous or other betaine-containing formulations.
Trimethylglycine (TMG) is the chemical name commonly used for betaine, a naturally occurring glycine derivative. It is present in foods such as beets, spinach, and whole grains and is also produced naturally in the body during choline metabolism.
TMG participates in one-carbon metabolism by donating a methyl group during the conversion of homocysteine to methionine. This reaction is mediated by the enzyme betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase (BHMT). Human studies have shown that betaine supplementation can lower plasma homocysteine concentrations, although this does not mean TMG supplementation is appropriate for everyone.
TMG is therefore commonly included in methylation, cardiovascular-nutrition, amino-acid metabolism, and general wellness formulations. It may also be found in sports-nutrition products, although intended use varies by formulation.
The exact amount and form of TMG can differ between products. Consumers should check whether the label specifies trimethylglycine, betaine, or betaine anhydrous, along with the amount per serving and other ingredients.