Trimethylglycine (TMG)

Trimethylglycine (TMG), also known as betaine, is a naturally occurring substance found in plants and animals, especially in beets, broccoli, and spinach. TMG is a wonderful source of methyl groups, molecules consisting of one carbon atom and three hydrogen atoms. In a process called methylation, methyl groups deactivate harmful substances in the body, converting them into helpful substances.

Homocysteine, an amino acid in the body, is one of the potentially harmful substances that is controlled by methyl groups. It is known that high levels of homocysteine can increase the risk of heart disease. Some studies show that men with high homocysteine levels have three times the risk of having a heart attack than those with lower levels. Other studies have linked high homocysteine levels to an increased risk of birth defects, depression, certain forms of cancer, and even Alzheimer's disease. Clearly, high homocysteine levels are a threat to your health. Fortunately, it is relatively easy to lower your homocysteine levels by taking methyl-rich TMG. The methyl groups in TMG can convert harmful homocysteine into methionine, a beneficial amino acid.

Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and steering clear of processed foods, can also help reduce homocysteine levels. On the other hand, smoking, eating high amounts of saturated fat, and taking birth control pills will increase them.