Weight Loss

Betaine: not just for the catwalk..

3 September 2023
Sophie de Boer

Betaine is more than just a trend: scientists have discovered that this natural compound can be a powerful ally in weight loss.

On the glittering catwalks of the fashion world, models seem to move effortlessly under the spotlights, and the secret behind their graceful appearance might just be betaine. This compound, derived from natural sources such as beets, is more than just a trend.

What is betaine?

Betaine, also known as trimethylglycine (TMG), is a naturally occurring compound found in various foods, including beets, spinach, quinoa, and wheat germ. It is also synthesized in the human body as a metabolite of choline. This versatile substance has several biological functions and is valued for its potential health benefits.

Losing weight with betaine

Betaine supports various mechanisms that have positive effects on metabolism and fat burning in the body. Here are 5 ways betaine can help with weight loss:

1. Regulation of lipid metabolism

Betaine can help regulate lipid metabolism, resulting in improved processing and burning of fats in the body. By promoting healthy fat metabolism, betaine can help reduce fat accumulation and prevent weight gain.

2. Improved insulin sensitivity

Betaine can improve the body's sensitivity to insulin, which is important for regulating blood sugar levels and preventing excessive fat storage. Improved insulin sensitivity can also help reduce hunger pangs and promote a healthy appetite.

3. Stimulation of fat burning

Betaine can increase the activity of enzymes involved in fat burning, allowing the body to burn fat more efficiently as an energy source. This can lead to increased calorie consumption and an acceleration of the weight loss process.

4. Suppression of inflammation

Inflammation in the body can contribute to weight gain and obesity. Betaine has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the body, thus reducing the risk of obesity-related complications and facilitating weight loss.

5. Promotion of Muscle Building

Betaine can also help promote muscle building and the maintenance of lean muscle mass during weight loss. This is important because muscles burn more calories than fat tissue, thereby stimulating the metabolism and promoting weight loss.

Betaine in action

Betaine seems to work best in conjunction with exercise. Studies show that betaine, when combined with regular physical activity, has a synergistic effect on promoting weight loss.

In a study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, researchers found that participants who used betaine, along with a training regimen, lost significantly more fat mass than those who only exercised. Scientists therefore emphasize that betaine is most effective when combined with regular exercise. Betaine appears to enhance the positive effects of exercise on weight loss.

Conclusion

While models on the catwalk may have long benefited from this secret weapon, we can now embrace the benefits of betaine too. And no, we don't need to hit the catwalk for this; the gym is sufficient!