Betaine and Choline for Obesity

This trial tests whether extra betaine and choline can improve metabolic health in overweight adults. Participants will join one of three groups: one group will consume three eggs daily with a supplement, another will take the supplement without eggs, and the last will receive a placebo (a substance with no active ingredients). Individuals with a BMI (a measure of body fat based on height and weight) between 25 and 35 who are willing to follow the study's egg-eating and fasting guidelines may be suitable candidates.

As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to scientific understanding and potentially enhance metabolic health.

The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it does exclude participants using hormone therapy, antibiotics, prebiotics, probiotics, or dietary fiber supplements.

Research has shown that betaine is generally safe for consumption. The FDA has approved its use in food and supplements. However, some studies suggest that taking 4 grams daily might raise certain cholesterol levels, such as LDL, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. In contrast, European health authorities consider 400 milligrams per day to be safe.

Choline, an essential nutrient that supports many body functions, is naturally found in foods like eggs and meat. It is usually well-tolerated, but consuming very high amounts can lead to side effects such as sweating, a fishy body odor, or low blood pressure.

Researchers are excited about the treatments using betaine and choline for obesity because they offer a fresh approach by leveraging natural compounds. Unlike traditional treatments that often focus on appetite suppression or increasing metabolism through medication, these treatments aim to improve fat metabolism and liver function, potentially offering a more holistic and less invasive method. Betaine, also known as trimethylglycine, is thought to enhance the breakdown of fats, while choline supports lipid metabolism and liver health. By incorporating these compounds, the treatments could provide a safer alternative with fewer side effects compared to conventional obesity medications.

Studies have shown that betaine can help reduce body fat and improve body shape. In humans, it significantly lowers total body fat. Animal studies demonstrated that betaine reduces body weight and fat buildup. Research also suggests that betaine may help balance gut bacteria, potentially preventing obesity. This trial will provide participants with different treatments involving betaine, such as daily supplements with or without eggs, to evaluate its potential benefits for improving metabolic health in individuals who are overweight.³⁴⁶⁷⁸