Betaine (TMG)

Silver· human data

Also known as: Trimethylglycine, TMG

Trimethylglycine, with early evidence for power output and a role in methylation.

Betaine, or trimethylglycine, is found in beetroot and grains and acts as an osmolyte and a methyl donor (helping recycle homocysteine). Both roles have been proposed to benefit training.

A handful of trials suggest small improvements in power output and body composition with a few grams daily, but results are inconsistent and the effect, if real, is modest. It is a reasonable low-risk 'might help a little' ingredient rather than a proven performance booster.

Sources

Written and reviewed by Mathew Beale, MSc Biotechnology, University of Reading.

Last reviewed: