Plasma betaine increases upon intake of high-fiber rye buns

An NMR-based metabonomic study explored the biochemical effects of a rye based fiber-rich diet in hypercholesterolemic pigs.

The pigs were fed high-fat, high-cholesterol rye- (n = 9) or wheat- (n = 8) based buns with similar levels of dietary fiber for 9-10 wk. Fasting plasma samples were collected 2 days before and after 8 and 12 days on the experimental diets, while postprandial samples taken after 58-67 days, and 1H NMR spectra were acquired on these.

The NMR spectra demonstrated a high intensity for the spectral region at 3.29 ppm in the rye diet. The 3.29 ppm signal is ascribed to N(CH3)3 protons in betaine, which may be an important contributor to the health promoting effects of rye.

Bertram et al (2009). "NMR-based metabonomics reveals that plasma betaine increases upon intake of high-fiber rye buns in hypercholesterolemic pigs." Mol Nutr Food Res. epub 14 July 2009