Live Longer, Live Better: The Longevity Benefits of Trimethylglycine

Researchers focus on trimethylglycine (TMG) as a key subject in longevity research due to its potential to improve health outcomes related to age-related disorders.

What is Trimethylglycine?

TMG is known to scientists as betaine, which functions as a quaternary ammonium compound synthesized from choline metabolism. This compound consists of a nitrogen atom with three methyl groups attached. Under conditions of osmotic stress, TMG serves as an osmolyte that safeguards cellular proteins and structures. TMG acts as a critical source of methyl groups for biochemical reactions essential to cell methylation processes.

Sources of TMG

TMG content is naturally present in various food sources, but reaches its peak levels in these foods:

• Beets: Beetroots contain the greatest amount of TMG of any dietary source, making them a preferred choice for those looking to increase their TMG intake.
• Spinach: Spinach provides a rich source of TMG along with additional vitamins and minerals that enhance nutritional health.
• Whole grains: Quinoa and wheat bran contain TMG along with fiber and further nutritional components.
• Supplements containing TMG offer a way for people to experience its benefits without requiring significant changes to their diets.

Metabolic Pathway of TMG in the Human Body

TMG functions as a vital methyl donor that operates in various metabolic processes and physiological activities throughout the human body.

• Absorption and distribution: TMG enters the human body mainly through the digestive tract. Once absorbed, the compound primarily reaches the liver and kidneys, where it is later eliminated by the urinary system.
• Hepatic metabolism: The liver utilizes TMG to provide a methyl group to choline, which results in the production of betaine that converts to dimethylglycine (DMG). DMG converts to sarcosine, which becomes important in metabolizing homocysteine.
• Other metabolic pathways: TMG functions within multiple biological systems by supporting DNA repair mechanisms and protein production while facilitating cell division and energy metabolism.

Critical Roles of TMG in Anti-Aging

Methylation Support of TMG

TMG delivers essential methyl groups that support DNA repair systems while also promoting gene expression and aiding homocysteine metabolism. Scientific studies show that methylation processes become less efficient with age, yet supplementation with TMG can reverse this decline and delay the onset of diseases related to aging.

Antioxidant Effects of TMG

TMG acts as an effective antioxidant that defends DNA together with cell membranes from free radical attacks by fighting cellular oxidative damage. When antioxidant activity defends cells and DNA, the aging process slows down.

Immune Function Enhancement with TMG

TMG increases lymphocyte numbers, specifically CD4+ cells, resulting in better performance of the immune system. Older people require it because their immune system functionality diminishes with age.

Cardiovascular Health

TMG reduces cardiovascular disease risk through its capability to lower homocysteine levels. High levels of homocysteine have a direct link to age-related health problems, including heart disease and stroke. TMG supplementation enhances cardiometabolic health and defends bone and muscle tissues against aging effects.

Tumor Suppression with TMG

TMG inhibits tumor growth and increases TNF-α levels in tumor models, demonstrating its potential for anti-aging and cancer prevention.

Synergies of TMG with NMN

The combination of TMG with nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) shows promise as an effective treatment for life extension and health improvement.

Complementary Pathways of TMG with NMN

• Methylation support: TMG provides methyl groups essential for maintaining the body's methylation cycle. This mechanism produces essential biomolecules, including NMN, which is crucial for their formation. The conversion of NMN into NAD⁺ becomes more efficient through correct methylation processes, which support energy metabolism and enhance cellular repair functions.
• Synthesis of NAD⁺: NMN acts as a precursor substance for NAD⁺, which performs key coenzyme roles in metabolic processes, including energy creation and DNA repair, while simultaneously controlling cellular aging mechanisms. TMG availability ensures the right methylation levels, which enhances NAD⁺ synthesis.

Oxidative Stress Reduction of TMG with NMN

Both TMG and NMN have antioxidant properties. TMG lowers oxidative stress through homocysteine level modulation, thus bolstering the body's entire antioxidant defense system. Sirtuin activation by NAD⁺ plays a vital role in cellular repair functions and processes that promote human longevity. These components work together to increase cellular protection against oxidative damage.

Safety, Side Effects, and Dosage Recommendations of TMG Supplements

Safety of TMG Supplements

Most individuals can safely use TMG when they adhere to the recommended dosages. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with other health authorities, recognizes TMG as a supplement that maintains a positive safety record. Before initiating TMG supplementation, individuals should seek professional medical advice, especially if they have existing medical conditions or medication regimens.

TMG Side Effects

Even though TMG supplements typically have minimal adverse reactions, a few individuals might develop health problems.

• Gastrointestinal disturbances: High TMG dosage may cause digestive problems like nausea and diarrhea, or stomach discomfort in people. Start with a low dose, then gradually increase to larger amounts depending on your body's reaction.
• Hypotension: TMG might lower blood pressure. Those who use blood pressure medications or have naturally low blood pressure should monitor their response to TMG and consult with a healthcare provider.
• Allergic reactions: While infrequent, some individuals develop allergic reactions that produce symptoms including itching along with rashes and swelling.

Dosage Recommendations of TMG Supplements

The general dosage recommendations for TMG depend on specific health goals and medical conditions while remaining within standard guidelines.

• Typical dosage: Healthcare professionals consider daily TMG intake between 500 mg and 3 grams as the standard dosage practice. Most research recommends starting with low dosages before making personal adjustments based on individual responses.
• Fitness and performance: Consumers who use TMG to enhance performance or achieve particular health objectives need to consume daily amounts between 1 and 2 grams.
• Consultation: Healthcare providers must be consulted when establishing individual dosages for TMG combined with supplements such as NMN.

TMG acts as a versatile molecule that bridges biochemistry research with longevity science studies. TMG presents itself as a possible remedy for age-related metabolic deterioration because it serves dual roles as a methyl donor and osmoprotectant. Existing research authorizes the use of TMG in anti-aging treatments, while further investigations remain necessary to determine its long-term impact and establish optimal treatment protocols. CD BioSciences provides contract research services specializing in developing trimethylglycine supplements, which can promote cellular health, reduce homocysteine levels, and support overall longevity. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us or make an online inquiry.

References

1. Attia YA, et al. Effect of Supplementation with Trimethylglycine (Betaine) and/or Vitamins on Semen Quality, Fertility, Antioxidant Status, DNA Repair, and Welfare of Roosters Exposed to Chronic Heat Stress. Animals (Basel), 2019, 9 (8): 547.
2. Arumugam MK, et al. Beneficial Effects of Betaine: A Comprehensive Review. Biology (Basel), 2021, 10 (6): 456.