Supplement Forms/Alternate Names

  • Betaine HCL, trimethyglycine HCL, betaine HCL, betaine anhydrous

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

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.

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

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.

References

REFA Dry Mouth

REFA1 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.

REFB Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

REFB1 Lirussi F, Azzalini L, et al. Antioxidant supplements for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and/or steatohepatitis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2007;(1):CD004996.

REFB2 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.

Revision Information

  • Reviewer: EBSCO NAT Review Board Eric Hurwitz, DC
  • Review Date: 07/2019
  • Update Date: 03/27/2020