Homocysteine

A sulfur-containing amino acid produced as a metabolic intermediate in the conversion of methionine to cysteine. Elevated plasma homocysteine (hyperhomocysteinemia) is associated with increased cardiovascular risk in observational studies. Betaine anhydrous (TMG), folate (Vitamin B9), and Vitamin B12 are the primary methyl donors involved in remethylating homocysteine back to methionine, reducing circulating homocysteine levels. This is the primary mechanistic basis for betaine anhydrous's cardiovascular health positioning (Section 47).