A nutrient from beets and spinach that helps keep methylation supported, especially when you are raising daytime NAD⁺ with VITALIZE.
Hallmarks supported: Epigenetic Alterations · Cellular Communication · Deregulated Nutrient Sensing
What is TMG?
TMG (trimethylglycine), also known as betaine, is a naturally occurring compound found in foods such as beets and whole grains and produced in small amounts by the body. It plays a central role in one-carbon metabolism by donating methyl groups that support routine cellular processes, including homocysteine recycling and methylation reactions involved in DNA and gene regulation.
This homocysteine-to-methionine conversion runs through the BHMT enzyme. Methionine is then used to form S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), the body’s primary methyl donor for DNA and histone methylation.
How TMG supports cellular processes
TMG contributes methyl groups through the BHMT pathway, supporting the conversion of homocysteine back into methionine. This helps maintain availability of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), the body’s primary methyl donor. Adequate SAM supports DNA and histone methylation, helping maintain orderly gene expression and cellular maintenance.
Pathways and outcomes studied
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Supports methyl balance during periods of increased cellular demand
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Supports healthy homocysteine metabolism
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Supports DNA and histone methylation involved in gene regulation
Why TMG is in VITALIZE
In the Cellaro system, TMG is not intended as a standalone supplement. It is included in VITALIZE to support methyl balance alongside daytime NAD⁺ support. As NAD⁺ turnover increases, the demand on methylation pathways can rise. TMG helps maintain methyl group availability through one-carbon metabolism, allowing NAD⁺-related energy, repair, and signaling processes to run smoothly as part of a combined, daily longevity routine.
Dosage context
What VITALIZE provides
150 mg TMG per day.
What research uses
Human studies have explored a range of doses, often higher than those used for routine support. Lower daily amounts are commonly used to support methyl balance alongside other metabolic pathways.
What this means for you
150 mg falls within a supportive range and is selected to complement daily NAD⁺ support, rather than act as a standalone high-dose intervention.
Research snapshot
Methyl demand during NAD⁺ support
Human research shows that increased NAD⁺ turnover is associated with higher levels of methylated nicotinamide, highlighting the role of methyl donors in maintaining metabolic balance.
Homocysteine metabolism
TMG has been studied for its role in supporting homocysteine recycling as part of one-carbon metabolism, with evidence from controlled trials and meta-analyses.
FAQs
What is TMG and why is it used in NAD⁺ supplements?
TMG (trimethylglycine, also called betaine) is a methyl donor that supports one-carbon metabolism. When NAD⁺ levels are supported during the day, the body processes more nicotinamide, which places demand on methylation pathways. TMG helps maintain methyl balance so NAD⁺-related energy and repair processes can run smoothly as part of a combined routine.
Is TMG the same as folate or vitamin B₁₂?
No. TMG, folate, and vitamin B₁₂ all support methylation, but they work through different pathways. Folate and B₁₂ primarily support the methionine synthase route, while TMG supports methyl balance through a separate pathway. This complementary coverage is why TMG is often included alongside other nutrients rather than used alone. Can I get enough TMG from food alone?
TMG is found in foods such as beets, spinach, and whole grains, but intake varies widely day to day. Supplemental TMG provides a consistent, predictable amount that fits cleanly into a structured daily NAD⁺ routine like VITALIZE, without relying on dietary variability.