Betaine HCI
Betaine, or trimethylglycine, first
discovered in sugar beets, is part
of a pathway that converts homocysteine
to L-methionine, an essential, sulfur-containing
amino acid. Its main physiologic
function is to protect cells that
are under stress, and to provide
methyl groups that are necessary
to many biological functions.
Betaine supplementation may reduce
levels of homocysteine, a risk for
cardiovascular disease and stroke.
As betaine hydrochloride acts as
a digestive aid. When combined with
a folate, betaine increases its
potency as a homocysteine reducing
agent.
