| Herbs & Supplements:

Betaine Anhydrous

Supplement Forms/Alternate Names
  • Betaine HCL, trimethyglycine HCL, betaine HCL, betaine anhydrous

 

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Introduction

Betaine Anhydrous is a compound that the body uses to break down harmful substances. It has been used to promote liver health and improve athletic performance. Betaine Anhydrous can be taken as a pill or powder. It has also been used to improve oral health and can be used as a mouthwash or toothpaste.

Dosages

3 grams 1 to 2 times daily

 

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What Research Shows

Not Enough Data to Assess

• Dry mouth ^A1 
• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease ^{B1, B2} 

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

 

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Safety Notes

It is likely safe to use trimethylglycine products and to take it orally in small doses for a short time. Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to use for a long period. It is also not known whether it is safe to take by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.

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References [ + ]

A. Dry Mouth

A1. López-Jornet P, Camacho-Alonso F, et al. Evaluation of the clinical efficacy of a betaine-containing mouthwash and an intraoral device for treatment of dry mouth. J Oral Pathol Med. 2012;41(3):201-206.

B. Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

B1. Lirussi F, Azzalini L, et al. Antioxidant supplements for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and/or steatohepatitis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2007;(1):CD004996.

B2. Abdelmalek MF, Sanderson SO, et al. Betaine for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: results of a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Hepatology. 2009 Dec;50(6):1818-26.

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Last reviewed July 2019 by EBSCO NAT Review Board Eric Hurwitz, DC
Last Updated: 3/27/2020

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