Betaine Hydrochloride

If you haven’t heard of betaine hydrochloride you’re probably scratching your head and wondering what the heck is that?
Betaine hydrochloride is an acidic form of betaine, a vitamin-like substance found in grains and other foods; it is recommended by some doctors as a supplemental source of hydrochloric acid for people who have a deficiency of stomach acid production (hypochlorhydria).
It has also been used for other conditions such as

• Acne Rosacea
• Allergies and Sensitivities and Food Allergies
• Asthma
• Chronic Candidiasis
• Dermatitis Herpetiformis
• Gallstones
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Just to name a few, there are a few others that I did not list here.

Signs of low stomach acid

The symptoms of high stomach acid are peculiarly the same as low.

• Indigestion
• Gas
• Bloating
• Undigested food in your stool
• Acid reflux
• GERD
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Malabsorption
• Nutrient deficiencies

If you are one of the people suffering from low stomach acid, betaine hydrochloride might just be a magic pill for you or as close to a magic pill as you will ever get.

How to use betaine hydrochloride

It comes in tablets or capsules, it is recommended taking one or more tablets or capsules, each 5–10 grains (325–650 mg), with a meal that contains protein.

Side effects

Large amounts of betaine hydrochloride can burn the lining of your stomach, should experience a burning sensation in your stomach stop use immediately. Anyone with a history of peptic ulcers, gastritis, or gastrointestinal symptoms—particularly heartburn—should see a doctor before taking betaine HCl. Betaine HCl helps make some minerals and other nutrients more absorbable.
According to webmd, “There isn't enough information to know if betaine hydrochloride is safe. It might cause heartburn. Peptic ulcer disease: There is a concern that the hydrochloric acid produced from betaine hydrochloride might irritate stomach ulcers or keep them from healing.”
There really needs to be more scientific research and clinical studies done to provide definitive proof of the benefits and side effects of betaine hydrochloride and the issue of low stomach acid. What other medications, supplements, or vitamins may help this condition.