Betaine HCl is a non-essential nutrient and a source of hydrochloric acid, a naturally occurring chemical in the stomach that helps digest food by breaking up fats and proteins.

Betaine HCL is necessary for adequate absorption of protein, calcium, vitamin B12 and iron. It is also known as hydrochloric acid and stomach acid. The low pH of the stomach's hydrochloric acid also destroys ingested bacteria and microorganisms.

Based on naturopathic theories about the importance of stomach acid, betaine hydrochloride has been recommended for a wide variety of problems, including anemia, asthma, atherosclerosis, diarrhea, excess candida yeast, food allergies, gallstones, hay fever and allergies, inner ear infections, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid conditions.

Many naturopathic physicians also believe that betaine hydrochloride can help conditions such as ulcers, indigestion, and esophageal reflux (heartburn). Conventional treatment for those conditions involves reducing stomach acid; according to one theory, however, lack of stomach acid leads to incomplete digestion of proteins, which causes allergic reactions and other responses that lead to increased ulcer pain.

In keeping with this theory, some doctors might recommend animal-derived pancreatic enzymes for patients experiencing allergic reactions to food. Vegetarians may wish to take betaine hydrochloride as an alternative to pancreatic enzymes, since it is not an animal product. Individuals suffering from allergies, ulcers, or heartburn should talk to their doctors before using betaine hydrochloride.

Recommended Use: As a dietary supplement, take 1 capsule just before each meal. (Do not take on an empty stomach. )

Contraindications: People with a history of ulcers, heartburn, or other gastrointestinal symptoms should see a nutritionally oriented doctor before taking betaine hydrochloride, and no one should take more than 10 grains (650 mg) without a physician's recommendation. Large amounts of betaine hydrochloride can burn the lining of the stomach. If a burning sensation is experienced, betaine hydrochloride should be immediately discontinued.

Ingredients: 1 Capsule

Betaine HCl (from Beets) 648 mg, Pepsin Enzymes (NF 1:10,000) 150 mg

Other Ingredients: Gelatin (capsule), Magnesium Stearate (vegetable source) and Silica.

Contains no: sugar, salt, starch, yeast, wheat, gluten, corn, soy, milk, egg, shellfish or preservatives.