Table of Contents
Summary
While not absolutely required, it is highly recommended that you supplement with trimethylglycine (TMG) if taking any NAD precursor like NMN or NR; experts in the field, like Dr David Sinclair recommend it as a precautionary measure due to its role as a methyl donor, that involves counteracting the depletion of methyl groups that occurs during the breakdown and excretion of nicotinamide, a byproduct of NAD metabolism. In addition to it’s role as a methyl donor, it has benefits for heart and brain health and is a very safe supplement.
NAD and Its Precursors
- NAD Function in the Body: NAD is crucial for energy metabolism and cellular functions, including DNA repair and gene expression regulation. It declines with age, which can impact these processes.
- Role of NMN and NR: Both NMN and NR function as precursors to NAD. They are often used in supplements to boost NAD levels and potentially combat age-related decline in cellular function.
- Effectiveness of NMN vs. NR: There’s debate over whether NMN or NR is more effective, but both are believed to enhance NAD levels similarly. NR has been studied more extensively.
- Pathways of NAD Synthesis: The body uses multiple precursors like tryptophan and nicotinic acid, alongside NR and NMN, through the salvage pathway to synthesize NAD.
The Importance of Methylation
- Methylation Process: Methylation converts excess nicotinamide into methylated nicotinamide for excretion. This process is crucial for maintaining balance in NAD supplement metabolism.
- Impact on Methyl Groups: Continuous NAD precursor supplementation may deplete methyl groups, essential for various biological functions, including influencing DNA structure and expression.
- TMG as a Methyl Donor: TMG provides additional methyl groups, potentially offsetting depletion. It’s widely used for its supportive role in methylation.
- Prevention of Methyl Group Depletion: Maintaining methyl group levels is important for preserving epigenetic health and proper cellular function.
Benefits of TMG Supplementation
- Athletic Performance: Historically popular among athletes, TMG supports exercise performance by bolstering energy metabolism and muscle function.
- Organ Health: TMG has been shown to support vital organs such as the liver and heart, promoting overall cardiovascular and metabolic health.
- Cellular Protection: By acting as a methyl donor, TMG protects cells against stress, ensuring they retain their functional capacity.
- Precautionary Use with NAD Boosters: Although not universally necessary, taking TMG as a precaution with NMN or NR supplements can guard against methyl depletion.
Considerations for Supplementation
- No Universal Requirement: Not everyone necessarily needs TMG with NAD supplements. Natural methyl group production may suffice for some people.
- Dosing Recommendations: Experts suggest ratios like 100 mg of TMG for every 200 mg of NAD precursor to match methyl donation needs.
- Long-term Impact: Even though immediate benefits might be visible, understanding long-term implications is crucial as more research emerges.
- Monitoring Effects: Since tests for NAD levels or methylation status aren’t widely available, monitoring personal responses to supplementation is key.
The Role of Trimethylglycine in Metabolism
- Glycine Derivative: TMG is derived from glycine and bonds with three methyl groups, enhancing its role in methyl donation.
- Broader Health Benefits: Beyond NAD supplementation, TMG aids broader cellular metabolism and supports various metabolic pathways.
- Unique Benefits: It serves different roles, from cellular efficacy in sports to metabolic balance in more static lifestyles.
- TMG Daily Intake: Common recommendations suggest a daily intake of around one gram, often adjusted based on individual need and health goals.
