Betaine Anhydrous
Although betaine anhydrous (trimethylglycine) was known to science and dietary supplements for a long time, it is only starting to become popular enough for the average supplement user to recognize its name.
As this compounds popularity grows, expect to see it in many more products ranging from daily health to pre-workouts, to perhaps even natural anabolics.
What ir does
Although studies into the athletic benefits of this compound are truly just beginning, initial research has shown indications that it is capable of reducing fat mass while simultaneously increasing lean body mass [1], as well as enhancing overall anabolic potential via IGF-1 signaling[2].
In addition to performance and muscle enhancement, this compound shows health benefits such as the reduction of homocysteine levels (which has been shown to cause inflammation issues such as heart disease)[3].
How it works
The most prevalent mechanism of action of betaine is that of methyl donation along with increases in body levels of s-adenosyl methionine (SAMe). The action of methylation is not as easy to understand as other dietary supplement actions, however, it has numerous benefits in the body as it provides the basis for all chemical production needed in humans, removes toxins via the liver, helps to synthesize dopamine and serotonin, and even has a role in hormonal regulation.
Dosing
Suggested daily intake of betaine anhydrous is 2.5g/day, split into two 1.25g doses to mimic the effects found in the most widely used human study reference[1].