Evidence Based This post has 42 references If you buy something through a link on this page, we may earn a small commission. How this works.
4.5 /5
11

Does TMG Have Health Benefits? + Side Effects

Written by | Last updated:
Puya Yazdi
Medically reviewed by
Puya Yazdi, MD | Written by | Last updated:

Trimethylglycine (TMG), or betaine, may lower homocysteine levels. It’s being researched for improving heart health and exercise performance. However, it can also increase cholesterol levels and its long-term safety is unknown. Read on to uncover the evidence and possible side effects of this supplement.

What is TMG?

Trimethylglycine (TMG) is a compound found in beetroot and other plants and animal foods. It was originally known as betaine because it was first discovered in sugar beets. However, TMG is one of the many betaines that have since been identified [1].

Scientists are investigating whether TMG can protect cells from stress and act as a source of methyl groups [1].

TMG is also known as betaine, glycine betaine, lycine, and oxyneurine. People consume TMG normally in their diet, though supplements are also available. TMG is also produced by the body from choline [2].

TMG supplements, commonly referred to as betaine anhydrous, have not been approved by the FDA for medical use. Supplements generally lack solid clinical research. Regulations set manufacturing standards for them but don’t guarantee that they’re safe or effective. Speak with your doctor before supplementing.

Betaine hydrochloride (Betaine HCl) is made out of betaine (TMG) and hydrochloric acid. It is a supplement that allegedly increases stomach acid [3].

TMG has many purported health benefits. Some brands claim it protects the liver, heart, and kidneys, and can enhance physical performance. However, solid data is lacking to back up most of these claims [1].

TMG, also known as betaine, is a compound found in beetroot and some other foods.

Mechanisms of Action

Donates Methyl Groups

In the body, TMG can donate one of its methyl groups to homocysteine. Methyl groups are three hydrogen atoms bonded to carbon. This turns homocysteine back into methionine, which theoretically prevents homocysteine levels from getting too high [4].

High homocysteine levels in the blood are a risk factor for heart disease. Limited evidence suggests that TMG supplementation and dietary intake lower homocysteine levels, which may potentially protect the heart [4, 5].

Additionally, by donating a methyl group, scientists think TMG may help produce S-adenosylmethionine and protect against oxidative stress with its antioxidant effects [6, 7].

TMG is a methyl donor: it helps add methyl group to compunds. By adding a methyl group to homocysteine, it creates methionine and prevents homocysteine from getting too high.

Is an Osmoprotectant

Researchers call TMG an osmolyte/osmoprotectant, which means that it keeps cells hydrated and increases stress resilience. In lab settings, it can stabilize proteins and membranes when environmental conditions are bad, such as drought, low temperatures, and high salt levels [8].

A couple of studies suggest that TMG helps cells adapt to stress. It may protect against premature programmed cell death (apoptosis) [8, 1].

TMG cell hydration and protection may improve glucose breakdown and lactate productivity, which might result in greater energy production during exercise [9].

Researchers believe that TMG might protect cells and increase their energy production by its hydrating (osmolyte) action.

Increases Nitric Oxide

TMG supplementation may increase blood levels of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide widens blood vessels and increases muscle blood flow during short-term exercise [9].

An increase in muscle blood flow can improve exercise performance by increasing nutrient delivery and waste excretion [9].

Purported Health Benefits

Effective for:

1) Homocysteinuria (High Urine Homocysteine)

Homocystinuria is an inherited (genetic) disorder of methionine metabolism that results in high homocysteine levels in the urine.

Anhydrous betaine or TMG is FDA-approved for reducing urine homocysteine in people with this group of disoders.

According to one study, it lowers blood homocysteine levels by 20% to 30% in several types of homocystinuria [10].

Possibly Effective for:

2) Dry Mouth

TMG’s osmolyte properties may protect the mouth from chemicals and other mouth irritants [11, 12].

Toothpaste that contains TMG reduced dry mouth symptoms in a study (DB-RCT) of 45 individuals. The patients reported less lip dryness and difficulty eating [13].

3) High Homocysteine

A high blood homocysteine level is a risk factor for heart disease. Limited evidence suggests that TMG supplementation lowers homocysteine levels in the blood, which can potentially protect the heart [4, 5].

In a review of 74 clinical trials, high choline and TMG intake were associated with lower blood inflammatory markers [14].

Because choline is a precursor to TMG, increased choline intake can lead to higher TMG blood levels. TMG then lowers homocysteine, which improves the mitochondrial membrane and protects cells from oxidative stress and inflammation [14].

Although TMG intake is not associated with heart attack incidence, long-term consumption has been linked with fewer heart disease-related deaths. Additional studies are needed [14].

Insufficient Evidence for:

The following purported benefits are only supported by limited, low-quality clinical studies.

There is insufficient evidence to support the use of TMG for any of the below-listed uses.

Remember to speak with a doctor before taking TMG supplements. TMG should never be used as a replacement for approved medical therapies.

4) Exercise Performance

TMG is a common ingredient in workout supplements.

Studies indicate that TMG supplementation to improve physique may help only when accompanied by exercise [15].

In a meta-analysis (of 7 RCTs), two studies reported increases in power and strength. The authors concluded that additional studies are necessary to evaluate its effectiveness [16].

In two studies (DB-RCT) of active men, TMG supplementation increased total repetitions during exercise. Besides increasing strength, TMG might improve endurance and reduce fatigue [9].

5) Body Composition

In a study (DB-RCT) of 23 experienced strength-trained men, long-term TMG supplementation during an exercising training program (6 weeks) improved body composition. The men had significant increases in lean mass and decreases in body fat [15].

In a study (RCT) of 12 trained men, TMG supplementation alongside exercise sessions decreased cortisol levels. It also increased blood growth hormone, which helps with muscle protein synthesis. This caused their lean mass to increase [17, 15].

Large-scale, high-quality studies are needed to confirm this purported benefit.

6) Diabetes

TMG blood levels are associated with better insulin sensitivity. Individuals with lower TMG levels are more likely to have insulin resistance [18].

In a study (RCT) of 3,000 individuals, those with lower TMG levels were more likely to have diabetes. After 2 years of lifestyle changes, higher TMG levels were associated with lower diabetes rates [19].

However, these studies only investigated the link between TMG blood levels and diabetes or insulin resistance. The effects of TMG supplements in humans remain unknown.

In mice, TMG supplementation:

  • Improves glucose tolerance [20]
  • Maintains glucose balance [21]
  • Improves insulin sensitivity [18]

Clinical trials are needed to determine the effectiveness and safety of TMG in people with diabetes and/or insulin resistance.

7) Cancer Prevention 

In a meta-analysis of 14 trials, high TMG and choline consumption contributed to cancer prevention and lowered the risk of developing cancer. The authors emphasized that further studies are needed to verify the results [22].

In a study of 1,500 breast cancer patients, a higher dietary intake of TMG was associated with fewer deaths from cancer. However, it did not affect the risk of developing breast cancer [23].

Until large-scale studies are conducted, the effects of TMG on cancer prevention remain undetermined.

8) Low Mood

TMG increases S-adenosyl-methionine (SAMe), which helps produce serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Neurotransmitter balance supports good mental health [24].

In 45 depressed patients who responded poorly to antidepressants, SAMe and TMG used as add-ons to conventional treatment for 90 days improved symptoms such as anxiety and feelings of helplessness and worthlessness [24].

However, one author of the mentioned study was the main formulator of the researched SAMe + TMG supplement. Further clinical trials are needed.

TMG administration in depressed rats changed their behavior. It helped increase serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the rats’ brains, having an antidepressant effect. Human studies have not investigated the antidepressant potential of TMG alone [25].

9) Cognitive Enhacement

In a study (DB-RCT) of 193 seniors, cobalamin supplementation increased TMG blood levels. This increase in TMG was associated with better reaction time, memory, and brain function [26].

Additionally, the participants with the largest increase in TMG levels had the greatest memory improvement [26].

However, these findings have not been replicated. Additional clinical trials are needed.

10) Autism Symptoms

According to one theory, children with Autism Spectrum Disorder have abnormal methionine cycles. The methionine cycle helps with blood vessel formation and other biological pathways. Abnormal methionine cycles can cause cognitive disorders. However, the methionine-autism theory is controversial and remains unproven [27].

Some researchers believe that autistic children do not have high enough levels of the by-products that are needed for the cycle and are also vulnerable to oxidative stress [27].

In autistic children, TMG and choline deficiency contribute to low methionine and SAMe levels, which can cause abnormal gene expression [28].

Although scientists are unsure if TMG supplementation affects SAMe levels in autistic children, studies of healthy participants showed that TMG can increase SAMe [28].

Oral supplementation with folinic acid and TMG normalized the methionine cycle in a small study of autistic children. TMG also increased antioxidant levels, which protects against oxidative damage [27].

However, there is insufficient information about the effects of TMG on autism. Additional studies are needed to determine if TMG is safe and beneficial.

11) Skin Irritation

In 21 healthy subjects, TMG relieved the skin irritating effects caused by detergents and decreased allergic responses [29].

TMG’s osmolyte properties increased skin hydration and improved skin barrier. Also, by acting as a methyl donor, it protected the cells from detergent attacks [29].

Uses Lacking Evidence:

No clinical evidence supports the use of TMG for any of the conditions listed in this section.

Below is a summary of the existing animal and cell-based research, which should guide further investigational efforts. However, the studies listed below should not be interpreted as supportive of any health benefit.

12) Antioxidant Defense

When TMG donates a methyl group, it helps produce S-adenosylmethionine, an antioxidant [6, 7].

TMG also increases glutathione, another powerful antioxidant [7].

In rats, TMG pre-treatment reduced oxidative damage due to stress [30].

Clinical trials are lacking to support this purported benefit.

13) Liver Protection

TMG is being researched for improving non-alcoholic and alcoholic liver injuries, though the existing evidence is inconclusive [21].

In the liver, TMG helps process methionine to produce S-adenosylmethionine, which helps lower inflammation. It can also help decrease liver cell death [21, 31].

In mice, TMG improved liver health by:

  • Decreasing insulin resistance in the liver [21]
  • Reducing fat buildup in the liver [21]
  • Increasing activation of liver AMPK to help with glucose and fat (lipid) balance [21]
  • Preventing alcohol-induced inflammation and stress [21]
  • Protecting the liver from toxins (like chloroform, methotrexate, LPS, etc) [1]
  • Protecting liver cells from bile-induced apoptosis [1]

However, human trials do not support these findings.

In a study (RCT) of 55 non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients, TMG did not reduce fat buildup in their livers. Even though the dosage was very high (at 20 g daily), it could only stop fat buildup from worsening and could not improve the disease [32].

Potential synergies between SAMe, TMG, and hepatitis C treatment are being researched [33].

In a study of 29 nonresponders, more than half the patients responded to the addition of SAMe and TMG to conventional hepatitis C treatment. Additional research is needed [34].

14) Effects on the Kidneys

In the kidneys, TMG’s main role is making sure the cells stay hydrated. During cellular stress, it preserves cell volume without changing cell functions [35].

In mice, TMG supplementation lowered high uric acid levels, protecting the kidney from injury [36].

Additionally, TMG treatment protected rat kidneys from CCL4-induced toxicity. CCL4 can cause kidney cell death and cirrhosis (liver disease) [37].

More research is needed.

15) Hair Damage Protection

Shampoos and other hair products can harm cells through osmotic stress. Since TMG is an osmolyte, it may keep hair cells hydrated and protect against environmental damage [38].

Shampoo with TMG protected hair protein structure [38].

Clinical studies are lacking, though.

16) Bone Health

The effects of TMG on bone health in humans are unknown.

Scientists are currently investigating TMG in human bone cells. TMG may activate pathways that increase osteoblast cell formation. Osteoblasts are cells that increase new bone formation [39].

TMG Side Effects/Negatives

Common Side Effects

Common side effects include [40]:

  • Agitation
  • Irritability
  • Sleep Disturbances
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Hair Loss

Proper safety data are lacking. The long-term side effects and risks of TMG supplementation are unknown.

Increases Cholesterol Levels

TMG may increase cholesterol levels. This potentially cancels out TMG’s benefits on heart health [41].

In a review of 4 studies (RCTs), TMG supplementation increased LDL (bad) cholesterol in healthy individuals. These effects were present after 2 weeks of 6 gram/day of TMG supplementation [41].

TMG doses under 6 grams may also increase LDL cholesterol and triglyceride blood levels (the main component of body fat) in obese individuals [41].

In another study (RCT) of 42 obese subjects, daily supplementation of 6 grams of TMG increased LDL (bad) and total cholesterol [42].

With this in mind, we advise people against supplementation until large-scale safety studies are carried out.

Other

The breakdown of TMG in the body can make trimethylamine. TMG supplementation can cause a person’s urine and sweat to smell fishy [40].

Limitations

Few human trials on TMG have been performed. Its potential to increase cholesterol and triglycerides is concerning. Until additional clinical studies are conducted, TMG supplements should be viewed as potentially dangerous products.

Natural Sources

Grains

  • Bread
  • Wheat germ
  • Cereal
  • Pasta
  • Biscuits [1, 2]

Meats

  • Beef
  • Chicken
  • Mutton
  • Fish
  • Shrimp
  • Other shellfish [1, 2]

Fruits and Vegetables

  • Spinach
  • Beets
  • Avocados
  • Asparagus
  • Potatoes [1, 2]

Supplementing with TMG

Dosage

A normal dietary intake of TMG from food is .5-2 grams/day [5].

TMG supplement doses used in clinical trials ranged from 2.5 to 6 grams per day. Although some studies suggest it is safe at an intake of 9-12 grams/day, even lower TMG doses increased blood lipids. Therefore, a safe TMG dosage cannot be established [5, 15].

Limited human studies suggest that 2.5 g/day of TMG is needed to increase blood TMG levels. This has not been confirmed by proper clinical trials [16].

Gene Interactions

TMG increases the expression (production) of genes that help with bone formation. In human bone cells, TMG increased RUNX2, OSX, and SOD2 gene expression. This increases the production of proteins that increase bone formation and protects against bone cell stress [39].

User Reviews

  • “I have suffered from horrible anxiety/panic attacks and depression for 12 years. I read a review that this product helped someone suffering from depression and so decided to give it a shot. To my astonishment and delight, this product worked immediately!”
  • “When added to folate, TMG makes a first arsenal defense against the damaging effects of high homocysteine levels. Recommended!”
  • “A necessary supplement for virtually all adults nowadays, primarily as it helps the liver eliminate toxins like heavy metals.”
  • This gave me a pressure headache within minutes of ingestion.”
  • “Added to my sleeping issues, unfortunately.”

The opinions expressed in this section are solely those of the users who may or may not have medical or scientific training. Their reviews do not represent the opinions of SelfHacked. SelfHacked does not endorse any specific product, service, or treatment.

Do not consider user experiences as medical advice. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider because of something you have read on SelfHacked. We understand that reading individual, real-life experiences can be a helpful resource, but it is never a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider.

Buy TMG

Takeaway

TMG, also known as betaine anhydrous, is a compound found in beetroot and some other foods.

It shouldn’t be confused with betaine hydrocholide, which is claimed to increase stomach acid.

By supporting methylation, TMG may prevent homocysteine from getting too high. However, many of its purported health benefits remain unproven.

TMG is FDA-approved for reducing urine homocysteine in people with a genetic disorder called homocysteinuria.

Some evidence suggests that it may also help with dry mouth and high homocysteine blood levels that have been linked with heart disease.

Preliminary data points to its potential to enhance exercise performance and body composition, but there’s insufficient evidence to warrant its widespread use in workout supplements.

TMG may cause serious side effects such as high cholesterol levels, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Until the safety profile of TMG supplements is better determined, caution is advised.

About the Author

RATE THIS ARTICLE

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
(8 votes, average: 4.50 out of 5)
Loading...

FDA Compliance

The information on this website has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration or any other medical body. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. Information is shared for educational purposes only. You must consult your doctor before acting on any content on this website, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Articles View All

caret-downclock-grayclosecomment-bubbledown-anglefacebook-squarehamburgerinstagram-squarelinkedin-squareminuspauseplayplustwitter-squareup-angle