The digestive process breaks complex molecules from food into simpler forms for absorption and use. This produces glucose, amino acids, glycerol and fatty acids. Hydrochloric acid is paramount to digestion. Betaine hydrochloride is the most common hydrochloric acid supplement. It is also known as betaine HCL. It is used to support digestion if you produce too little stomach acid. Consult your doctor before taking betaine HCL.
Function
Protein is composed of amino acid chains. Your body must break protein down into usable nutrients. Hydrochloric acid is the primary substance responsible for protein digestion. It is often referred to as stomach acid. Protease, a pancreatic enzyme, works with hydrochloric acid to aid this process. Hydrochloric acid also provides a protective barrier, preventing potentially harmful microorganisms in your food from being absorbed.
Low Stomach Acid
Reduced stomach acid is known as hypochlorhydria. This reduces your overall digestive ability and causes a failure to properly digest proteins and absorb trace minerals. It can lead to malabsorption of vitamin B-12, a nutrient crucial to healthy red blood cell production. Low stomach acid leaves you vulnerable to gastrointestinal infections such as gastroenteritis. It also allows bacteria and yeast to proliferate.
Symptoms
Low stomach acid symptoms are similar to symptoms of overproduction. Discuss your symptoms with your doctor before drawing conclusions. These symptoms include nausea, gas, bloating, heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux, also known as GERD. This is when food, liquid and stomach acid can travel backward into your esophagus, which can cause burning sensations and a sore throat.
Dosage and Precautions
Betaine HCL is taken at the start of your meals. Your doctor will determine the dose after conducting an individual assessment. You should monitor how you feel after meal consumption. This helps your doctor determine the dose that is right for you. When consuming meals with little to no protein, less betaine HCL is needed. You should not take betaine HCL if you have stomach ulcers. The increase in stomach acid may worsen this condition.
Member Comments