Betaine anhydrous is a compound found in various foods such as beets, spinach, and quinoa. It is also known as trimethylglycine (TMG) and can be found in supplemental form. Betaine may be used to support healthy homocysteine levels.* (study) 

Betaine anhydrous may also possess a wide range of potential health benefits, including potentially supporting heart health and relieving certain types of inflammation as part of a specific regimen (study).*

Betaine anhydrous TMG may also support weight management (study), exercise performance, and muscle mass.* (study)

What is Betaine Anhydrous?

Betaine anhydrous is a molecule that contains nitrogen, hydrogen, and oxygen. This molecule is found in a variety of foods, including beets, wheat germ, spinach, and quinoa. While the body does produce betaine anhydrous naturally, supplementation may be necessary in specific cases to help support betaine levels. Betaine anhydrous supplements are typically available in powder or capsule forms.

Betaine anhydrous is also known by its chemical name, trimethylglycine (TMG). TMG is considered a methyl donor and acts as a source of methyl groups for various biochemical reactions in the body. Methylation is a process that plays a role in many biological functions, including DNA synthesis and repair, regulation of gene expression, metabolism, and helps to support immune function.*

Potential benefits of betaine anhydrous

As described previously, betaine anhydrous may possess a wide range of potential wellness benefits. Here are some of the most interesting ones:

Supporting heart health

One of the most well-known benefits of betaine anhydrous is its ability to support heart health for some individuals.* This is because betaine anhydrous can help to reduce homocysteine levels. Homocysteine is an amino acid often linked to an increased risk of heart disease when levels are too high.* Healthy heart health is linked to healthy aging.

Weight management

Betaine anhydrous may also be helpful for those looking to manage their weight. One study showed that betaine anhydride supplementation helped participants lose fat while preserving lean muscle mass.* This effect may have been due to betaine's ability to help support methylation rates and liver function but might be happening for reasons not linked to betaine consumption.*

Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural response from the immune system, but chronic inflammation can lead to a host of chronic diseases. Some research has shown that betaine anhydrous may help to reduce inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines. You can also read about NAD+ and betaine anhydrous.

As always, talk to your doctor before taking any supplements. Get professional advice if you think you might need a betaine supplement or are already taking one to ensure you're not exceeding the amounts you may need.