NNDimethylglycine

N,N-Dimethylglycine (DMG) is an organic compound that is a dimethylated derivative of the amino acid glycine. It occurs as a trace metabolite in mammals and can be found in small amounts in some foods; it is also produced synthetically for commercial use as a dietary supplement.

In human metabolism, DMG is an intermediate in one-carbon metabolism. It can be formed during methyl group transfers involving betaine, and is subsequently converted to sarcosine and then to glycine by mitochondrial enzymes. Because of its position in this pathway, DMG is sometimes discussed in relation to methylation reactions and energy metabolism, though its exact physiological role remains not fully defined.

Uses and evidence: DMG is marketed as a dietary supplement with claimed benefits for immune function, athletic performance, and mood. Robust clinical evidence supporting these claims is lacking. Some small, methodologically limited studies have reported minor or inconsistent effects on fatigue, immune markers, or recovery, but overall results are not reliable enough to establish clear therapeutic benefits.

Safety and regulation: DMG is generally considered safe at typical supplemental doses, with rare adverse effects such as digestive upset or headaches reported in some individuals. It is not approved as a medicine by major regulatory agencies; in many jurisdictions it is regulated as a dietary supplement, and product quality can vary between brands.

See also: methylation, sarcosine, glycine.