Betaine Anhydrous has the ‘scientific’ name of trimethylglycine (TMG). It doesn’t really matter what you call it as it’s still made of the amino acid glycine with three methyl groups attached to it. Betaine is naturally derived from the breakdown of choline within the body. It’s also found in a number of food sources from where it gained its name after being discovered in sugar beets. Betaine, TMG, Betaine Anhydrous and Trimethylglycine for clarity are all the same ingredient!
Betaine goes to work for a few roles within the body. The most commonly known in the supplement industry is for it providing similar benefits to Creatine. This ingredient works as an osmolyte in the body just like creatine. Osmolyte’s are molecules that are moved in and out of your body’s cells so that it can maintain cell volume and fluid balance. The better you keep your cells hydrated the more resilient they are to the stressors from exercise.
Who should take it
Medical benefits for those who are in need of the cardiovascular health benefits and suppression of homocysteine levels. We do not recommend any pre-workout supplements to be taken where said benefits are sought after.
How much should you use
The recommended dosages start at 1500mg up to 6000mg. For performance benefits a dose of 1500-2500mg is seen to be the optimal range, whereas the upper limit of 6000mg is geared towards cardiovascular health and to keep homocysteine levels suppressed.
When should you take it
Anytime is fine however 15-30 minutes before training is optimal.
Are there any side effects
An upset stomach or ‘needing the loo’ have been reported in higher dosages of betaine supplementation.
For athletes, from elite level to the every-day athlete looking to increase their strength and power output. This is because betaine supplementation is shown to increase factors affecting protein synthesis in muscles and is also shown to raise the levels of anabolic agents while reducing the level of cortisol catabolic hormone, this results in an increase in power and endurance performance.
