What are the biological effects of betaine ?

Betaine is an alkaloid and amino acid derivative that is widely present in animals, plants, and microorganisms. Its content is relatively high in quinoa, rye flour, gray cabbage, and sugar beet. Betaine, as an organic osmotic pressure protector, can be stored in organs such as the liver, kidneys, and brain. The biological effects of betaine mainly include the following points:

1) Provide active methyl groups to reduce serum homocysteine levels

2) Save methionine and promote protein synthesis

3) Promote lipid metabolism and inhibit liver lipid deposition

4) Regulating cell osmotic pressure and reducing environmental stress response

The natural anhydrous betaine obtained through separation and purification using natural beet molasses as raw materials has high purity. Meanwhile, natural betaine has significant advantages over betaine hydrochloride (i.e. synthetic betaine). Natural extracted betaine does not contain residual trimethylamine components; The chlorine content is very low and will not affect the cell’s osmotic regulation function; In addition, natural betaine can quickly dissolve in water, maximizing its role as a osmotic pressure regulator and methyl donor, with minimal impact on solution pH.

In addition to playing important roles in cardiovascular health, lipid metabolism, osmotic pressure regulation, etc., natural betaine has been proven in many clinical trials to improve exercise performance, especially physical fitness and strength. In a relatively new clinical study, participants consumed 2.5g of natural betaine daily for 14 days and showed significant improvement in vertical jumping, squatting, and throwing abilities. (Lee et al, Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 2010, 7:27)