Betaine

Nutrition Q&A [Moderated]
1

Howdy Jordan. I’ve got two questions about the supplement betaine.

  1. I’ve only found one study that directly measures outcomes of interest and supports supplementation – in humans (Cholewa et al., 2013). However, there appears to be a good chunk of evidence that adding betaine to animal feed increases lean mass and decreases fat mass in pigs and chickens. See for example the seven studies cited in the “body composition” section of “Effects of betaine on performance and body composition: a review of recent findings and potential mechanisms” by Cholewa et al. 2014. Naively, I would reason that if it works for farm animals, it should also work for humans. How seriously should we take these animal studies as support for supplementation in humans?

  2. Are there any possible negative health effects a betaine user should be concerned about? In particular, is it safe for the heart?

2

Hey Patrick,

I have 38 papers on betaine anhydrous/tmg saved on my computer- all about human performance or health effects. I think you need to look harder.

It is safe for the heart- perhaps even beneficial.

3

Jordan,

Do you feel betaine Would be beneficial in trying reduce fatty liver? Do you know if it is safe to supplement with both betaine and choline? I’m happy to do my own research as well and am trying to do so, I just thought you might know. Thanks.

4

@PatrickD It is in peri-rx as betaine anhydrous.

@MorganIsm I don’t think betaine anhydrous would be useful at reducing fatty liver. I am not aware of any safety data contraindicating betaine anhydrous and choline, though I don’t think supplemental choline is useful.