Tag: Natural betaine

First discovered in sugar beets in the 19th century, betaine, also known as trimethylglycine (TMG), is a zwitterionic molecule that can be sourced naturally from foods or produced synthetically. This article explores the precise chemical makeup and the varied origins of what is betaine made of, from its natural biosynthesis to its industrial creation.

While often confused, betaine HCl is a man-made supplement and not found naturally in food. The precursor compound, betaine, or trimethylglycine (TMG), is abundant in several whole foods and supports vital bodily functions, including digestion.

According to the USDA, some common foods like wheat bran and spinach contain exceptionally high concentrations of betaine. The easiest way to get betaine naturally is by adjusting your diet to include a variety of these potent natural sources, from vegetables and seafood to whole grains.