Betaine Contribution to Performance Enhancement in Sport

Abstract

Betaine is a compound with significant implications in exercise biology due to its ability to optimize metabolic homeostasis and exercise capacity. This narrative review analyzes the physiological and biochemical mechanisms by which betaine influences neuromuscular performance and regulates post-exercise recovery processes. From an ergogenic perspective, betaine acts as an organic osmolyte and a methyl group donor in the methionine resynthesis cycle, a process directly associated with improving muscle strength and anaerobic power. Its anti-inflammatory properties are mediated by suppressing the nuclear factor-kB (NF-kB) proinflammatory axis and IL-1β activity, thereby attenuating exercise-induced muscle damage. Metabolically, the compound exerts anti-adipogenic effects by downregulating key enzymes involved in lipogenesis and stimulating fatty acid β-oxidation, which favors the optimization of body composition. Furthermore, its vasodilatory action is primarily attributed to the potentiation of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) pathway, ensuring optimal perfusion and nutrient delivery to working muscles. At the central level, the neuroprotective effect consists of counteracting neuronal oxidative stress, clearing homocysteine and attenuating antidepressant behavior. These data reveal that betaine is a complex plurivalent ergogenic agent. Its integration into sports nutrition optimizes the adaptive physiological response to exercise through integrated cellular, vascular and metabolic mechanisms, representing a viable strategy for the overall improvement of athletic performance.