People with a certain gene variant (MTHFR C677T T-allele) see a bigger boost in a substance called betaine in their blood when they take betaine supplements, compared to people without that gene variant.

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Evidence from Studies

Supporting (1)

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Betaine supplementation modulates betaine concentration by methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase genotype, but has no effect on amino acid profile in healthy active males: A randomized placebo-controlled cross-over study.

Randomized Controlled Trial

Human

2024 Jul

Contradicting (0)

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No contradicting evidence found

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According to GRADE and EBM methodology, here is what ideal scientific evidence would look like to definitively prove or disprove this specific claim, ordered from strongest to weakest evidence.

Source Study

Betaine supplementation modulates betaine concentration by methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase genotype, but has no effect on amino acid profile in healthy active males: A randomized placebo-controlled cross-over study.

Score: 46

DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2024.05.003

Similar Assertions

If you have a specific gene variant that makes it hard for your body to process folic acid and your homocysteine levels are high, adding betaine (a natural compound) might help lower those levels better than folic acid alone.

74%

Taking betaine supplements doesn't seem to make a noticeable difference in your blood fats, sugar, inflammation, liver health, or blood pressure — at least not in most adults.

70%