DMG (Dimethylglycine)
A methyl donor from the choline-betaine pathway, promoted since the 1980s for endurance and immunity. The performance claims were examined decades ago and did not hold up.
Evidence last reviewed: August 2026
What the science says
- Athletic performance Limited evidence
A review of the clinical literature on DMG and L-carnitine as performance enhancers in athletes concluded there was no convincing evidence that DMG improves aerobic capacity or performance. Nothing published since has changed that.
- Behavioural and neurological effects Limited evidence
A randomized controlled trial of DMG in autism and pervasive developmental disorder found no significant benefit over placebo. This was the best-designed human test of the compound's most-hyped non-athletic use.
- Immune function Limited evidence
Claims about antibody response and immune stimulation come mainly from old animal and poultry work. No human randomized trial supports an immune benefit from DMG supplementation.
Dosage & safety
Scientific references
Where to buy
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Related in Physical performance
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- Caffeine Strong evidence
- Beta-Alanine Moderate evidence
- BCAA (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) Limited evidence
- EAA (Essential Amino Acids) Moderate evidence