Our HCl is one of the only brands available which is suitable for vegetarians and vegans!

Betaine hydrochloride is a source of hydrochloric acid, a naturally occurring stomach acid that helps break up fats and proteins for further digestion in the small intestine. Gastric (stomach) acid also aids in the absorption of nutrients through the walls of the intestines into the blood. Gastric acid also helps protect the gastrointestinal tract from harmful bacteria. A normal level of gastric acid in the stomach—100,000-1,000,000 times more acidic than water—is sufficient to destroy bacteria, but a low level may increase the likelihood and severity of certain bacterial and parasitic intestinal infections.

Causes of low stomach acid

Several factors can cause stomach acid imbalance:
 

• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause a vicious cycle of low stomach acid and malnutrition because some many of them are involved in stomach acid production. If any of these are lacking in the diet, hypochlorhydria can develop. In turn, hypochlorhydria affects the body’s ability to absorb the vitamins and minerals it needs to produce the proper levels of HCl. The lack of proper nutrient absorption sets the stage for the vicious cycle of low stomach acid output and chronic nutrient deficiencies.
• Chronic stress can impair the body’s ability to produce the proper amount of HCl.
• Excessive alcohol consumption can damage the cells that produce HCl in the stomach.
• The presence in the stomach of a common bacteria, Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), can impair the body’s ability to produce the proper amount of HCl.
•  HCl production decreases with age. The average 60-year-old produces only one-fourth as much HCl as a 20-year-old.

Taking Vegan HCl - betaine hydrochloride with meals can aid in protein digestion and possibly reduce food sensitivities through improved digestion and may reduce bloating, gas, and poor food absorption if it is caused entirely or in part by having low stomach acid. (Incidentally acid reflux does not necessarily mean the stomach acid is too high).

Suggested dosage: Try one with each meal. If that doesn't work, increased to 2, then 3 then 4. If you get worse instead of better, the product should be discontinued.

Ingredients: 200mg betaine hydrochloride, vegan capsule (cellulose)

Contents: Contains 90 capsules

Side Effects

Side effects are seldom seen, but betaine hydrochloride has not been through rigorous safety studies. Its safety, especially for young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease, is not known.

Precautions

Do not use if you have an ulcer, chrohns or colitis.Not recommended for young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease (see above). If a burning sensation is experienced, betaine hydrochloride should be immediately discontinued.