How to Treat Trimethylaminuria

Tips and tricks to effectively manage and treat trimethylaminuria

Co-authored by David Nazarian, MD

Last Updated: February 29, 2024 References

You may have or believe that you have trimethylaminuria (TMAU), which is a rare disorder that causes the body to constantly emit a foul odor that cannot be stopped through maintaining good personal hygiene. ^{[1]
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Research source} However, it may be possible to reduce the bad odor by taking different steps. Not all of these methods have worked for those with TMAU, as each person is different, but some have at least reduced the symptoms.

Steps

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Eliminate foods that are high in choline such as eggs, red meats, legumes. ^{[2]
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Trustworthy Source
National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK
Go to source} You can find out the choline levels of food in choline with this food list .
Changing your gut culture to have healthy and beneficial bacteria is seen as a good way to improve the digestive enzymes and be able to detoxify trimethylamine in the system. ^{[3]
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There has been mixed success at reducing TMAU symptoms by taking vitamin B2, zinc, kelp pills, or copper chlorophyllin. ^{[4]
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^{[5]
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Research source} Coffee and beer have been reported to increase the odor issues of those with TMAU.
Find soaps for the body that are have pH level of between 5.5-6.5 which should help to break down or wash away trimethylamine on the body's surface. Also use the same level detergents for washing clothes. ^{[6]
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Trustworthy Source
National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK
Go to source}
Sweating too much doesn't help. Also staying calm is a good idea. ^{[7]
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Research source}
People who are overweight may have additional stress on their body which can make it more difficult for the body to work efficiently. For instance, a fatty liver will make it more difficult to eliminate waste/toxins from the system. A lighter person who follows a good diet also usually has a better digestive system and a lot more beneficial bacteria.
When deciding on a healthy lifestyle change, it may take time for it to have an impact on your body. Significant changes may not be noticed until 6 months later in some people taking action to reduce their systems.
Everybody's body reacts differently according to what they eat. Some people may have more adverse reactions to milk products, wheat, beans, seafood etc. Try to eliminate what makes you stomach rumble and your body sweat more. ^{[8]
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