Trimethylglycine, or Betaine, works closely with vitamin B12, choline, a form of the amino acid methionine known as S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), and folic acid. Each of these compounds serve as “methyl donors”, donating and transporting the methyl molecules used to make essential chemical processes possible. Betaine’s donation of methyl groups is especially important for cellular replication, proper liver function, and detoxification reactions. Betaine also plays a part in protecting the kidneys, and in the construction of carnitine. Choline and Betaine are closely related. When choline, which contains four methyl groups, drops one of these groups, donating it to another molecule, it then becomes betaine, or trimethylglycine. Similarly, if betaine gives away one of its methyl groups to another molecule, it then becomes dimethylglycine.
Reports have been made identifying betaine as being a key player in diminishing levels of homocysteine, a toxic metabolized amino-acid breakdown product found in the blood and an alleged promoter of osteoporosis and atherosclerosis. Although the primary nutrients involved in controlling levels of homocysteine are vitamin B12, vitamin B6, and folic acid, betaine is said to have been useful in treating various people whose high levels of homocysteine do not improve with the use of the previously mentioned nutrients.
by the Harvard School of Public Health
It has been asked by millions of people “If you eat a healthy diet, do you need to take vitamins?” Not very long ago, the common answer from most experts and professionals would have been an emphatic "no". However, today there's quite a bit of evidence that taking a daily multivitamin makes good sense for most adults.
by the Mayoclinic Staff
Given the popularity and availability of “high potency” amino acids, antioxidants, enzymes and herbs, it might seem like dietary supplements could replace food as a source of the nutrients the body requires. However, this is not the case.
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