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Benefits of Betaine

Betaine is a natural chemical found in the stomach that carries and donates methyl molecules throughout the body to make chemical processes work. It also plays a significant role in maintaining heart health and aids proper liver function and cellular reproduction.

  1. Physical Performance

    • Betaine enhances physical performance due to the chemical effect it has on your system, which helps your body break down fat and protein. Betaine also helps your body's metabolism, which in turn may help you lose weight while maintaining your muscle tissue. As a result, your physical performance may be optimized.

    Liver Health

    • Another benefit of betaine is the positive effect it has on the health of your liver. The cells in your liver produce betaine naturally, so taking additional supplements of betaine helps keep your liver function at its best. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it may also protect you from fatty deposits that can form in your liver as a result of alcohol abuse, diabetes and obesity.

    Cardiovascular Health

    • When betaine is used along with folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12, it helps reduce toxic levels of the amino acid homocystiene, which may be responsible for heart disease and stroke. If you are suffering from the genetic disease homocystinuria, betaine supplements help reduce the large amounts of homocystiene that accumulate in your body as a result of this condition.

    Internal Humectant

    • According to danisco.com, betaine helps protect your body against dehydration and water loss due to stress. It also helps hydrate your internal cells and maintain their volume as it aids in the restoration of your body's fluid balance.

    Side Effects & Warnings

    • Although betaine provides many benefits, it's important to keep in mind that it also may have side effects. Using betaine may result in diarrhea, nausea and upset stomach. If you are overweight, you should talk to your doctor before you take betaine because it may raise your cholesterol levels. Also, if you are suffering from kidney disease, betaine may interfere with the drugs you are taking to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood.

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