Betaine

Betaine (betaine anhydrous) is commonly prescribed to reduce high levels of homocysteine in the blood.  Homocysteine is an amino acid produced by the body, generally as a byproduct of consuming meat.  Excessively high levels of homocysteine can lead to a host of medical problems including blot clots, osteoporosis, and dislocation of the ocular lens.  High homocysteine levels also increases the risk of heart disease and heart attack. 

Betaine is naturally occurring in the human body, and can also be found in foods like beets, cereals, seafood, and spinach.  Betaine is also commonly prescribed along with vitamins B6, B12, and folate to further aid in homocysteine processing.  Betaine begins working to reduce homocysteine within a week, and generally has homocysteine levels back to acceptable parameters within a month.  Betaine anhydrous is also known as trymethylglycine (TMG).

Betaine hydrochloride is a source of hydrochloric acid which aids in digestion.  Hydrochloric acid is a naturally occurring stomach acid that helps break down fats and proteins for further digestion in the small intestine.  Stomach acid also helps in the absorption of nutrients through the intestine walls into the blood stream.  Gastric acid also helps to protect the gastrointestinal system from bacterial infection.  Betaine hydrochloride is a synthesized chemical, and is not obtained from any plant or animal source.  Gastric acid is produced by stomach cells, and is also not available from any food source.

Betaine related topics: Betaine, Elevated Homocysteine, Homocysteine, Trymethylglycine

Betaine Nutraceutical Products: Methylate