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What Is a Betaine?

by Katherine Stillwater

Overview

Betaine, or betaine anhydrous, is a nutrient that is a known methyl donor. It is responsible for donating and carrying methyl molecules throughout the body to make certain chemical processes work, according to the University of Maryland.
The Facts

Betaine is available both in nature and in supplement form as a powder, capsule or tablet and manufactured as a byproduct of sugar beet. According to the University of Maryland, the dietary sources of betaine include broccoli, grains, beets, shellfish and spinach.

Features

According to the University of Maryland, betaine has many benefits on the human body, in particular against liver disease, heart disease and homocystinuria. It was found that betaine may help guard against fatty deposits in the liver, obesity, diabetes and protein malnutrition. Furthermore, betaine may reduce toxic levels of the amino acid homcysteine, which in high levels leads to stroke and heart disease. Inviduals suffering from the homocystinuria, a genetic condition that causes high levels of homocysteine to accumulate in the body, are at higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease. Betaine supplements may lower levels of homocysteine in these cases.
Function

The process of methyl donation is responsible for proper liver function and cellular reproduction, according to University of Maryland. Furthermore, it also aids the body in making carnitine, which is a compound required for the transfer of fatty acids. Betaine is used to treat homocystinuria, which causes increased amounts of homocysteine in the body, according to Medline. Increased amounts of homocysteine can result in extreme tiredeness, dislocation of eye lenses, abnormal bone structure, seizures, osteoporosis, weight fluctuations, blood clots and slower child development.
Considerations

The recommended dose of betaine for adults is dependent upon the type of condition that is being treated, according to University of Maryland. In particular, individuals suffering homocystinuria should take 6 grams of betaine per day while those suffering from cardiovascular disease should take between 1,500 and 3,000 milligrams per day. Furthermore, betaine is not recommended for children unless prescribed by a physician.
Warning

Individuals who take betaine may experience mild side effects. These include stomach upset, diarrhea and nausea, according to University of Maryland. Obese or overweight people should seek a doctor's advice prior to taking betaine because it may raise their cholesterol. Furthermore, individuals who have kidney disease should avoid betaine because it can further increase their cholesterol levels, when taken with vitamin B6 and folic acid.