Evidence supporting the use of: Betaine
For the health condition: Fat Metabolism (poor)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Betaine (also known as trimethylglycine) is used to support fat metabolism, and there is scientific evidence to justify this use, though it is not overwhelmingly strong. Betaine functions as a methyl donor in the body, playing a role in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, which is important for various metabolic processes, including lipid metabolism. Several animal and human studies have explored betaine's effect on fat metabolism, particularly in liver health. Betaine supplementation has been shown to reduce hepatic fat accumulation in models of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and may help support normal liver function. Some human clinical trials have demonstrated that betaine can decrease liver fat content and improve markers of liver function, although results are not entirely consistent across studies.

In the context of general fat metabolism, research in athletes and healthy adults suggests betaine supplementation may have modest effects on body composition by reducing fat mass and supporting muscle gain, but these findings are preliminary and not universally observed. The mechanism is thought to be related to its role in methylation and possibly in influencing lipid metabolism genes. Overall, while there is scientific basis for betaine's role in fat metabolism—especially with regard to liver fat—the strength of evidence in broader contexts (such as weight management or general fat metabolism in healthy individuals) remains moderate, justifying a rating of 3 out of 5.

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