Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Trimethylglycine (TMG), also known as betaine, has garnered scientific interest for its potential role in supporting or treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The rationale stems from TMG’s function as a methyl donor in the liver, facilitating the conversion of homocysteine to methionine via the enzyme betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase. This methylation process is essential for the synthesis of S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), a molecule involved in hepatic lipid metabolism and protection against liver injury.

Several animal studies have shown that TMG supplementation can reduce hepatic fat accumulation, improve liver histology, and decrease markers of liver inflammation. In rodent models, betaine has been demonstrated to attenuate hepatic steatosis induced by high-fat diets and alcohol, likely by enhancing lipid export and reducing oxidative stress.

Human data, however, are limited and mixed. A few small clinical trials have examined betaine supplementation in patients with NAFLD or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Some of these studies report improvements in liver enzymes and hepatic steatosis, while others do not show significant benefit. Meta-analyses and reviews generally conclude that while the mechanistic rationale is strong and preclinical evidence is promising, large-scale, high-quality human trials are needed to confirm efficacy.

In summary, TMG/betaine’s use for fatty liver disease is based on scientific investigation and plausible mechanisms, but current clinical evidence is modest, supporting a low-to-moderate (2 out of 5) rating.

More about Trimethylglycine (TMG)
More about Fatty Liver Disease

Other ingredients used for Fatty Liver Disease

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