Betaine hydrochloride is usually a non-essential nutrient, except for the many individuals whose production of gastric is either low (hypochlorhydria) or virtually absent (achlorhydria). It is a source of hydrochloric acid, a naturally occurring chemical produced by the parietal cells of the stomach that helps digest food by breaking up proteins and fats. In particular, Betaine HCL is necessary for adequate absorption of protein, calcium, vitamin B12, and iron. Additionally, stomach acid is required for adequate absorption of many micronutrients, such as, selenium, copper, zinc, etc. The low pH of the stomach's hydrochloric acid also destroys ingested bacteria and other microorganisms.

Low to absent stomach acid can directly or indirectly CAUSE the following disease conditions:

Condition (related to)

Anemia ( B12, other B vitamins, iron)
Arteriosclerosis (improper fat and cholesterol metabolism)
Asthma (protein metabolism, food allergy)
Diarrhea (carbohydrate, fat metabolism, food allergy)
Eczema (allergies and malabsorption of micronutrients)
Gallstones (fat and calcium metabolism)
Gastric ulcers (destruction in stomach of H. Pyloris)
Food allergies (protein metabolism)
High homocysteine ( a cause of severe coronary heart disease)
Hives, acute and chronic (protein metabolism)
Indigestion and heartburn (fat, protein, carbohydrate metabolism)
Malabsorption (of proteins and fats)
Osteoporosis (calcium absorption)
Proriasis (allergies, malabsorption of micronutrients)
Rheumatoid arthritis (allergies)
Thyroid conditions Tic douloureux (food allergies)
Vitiligo

Usage and Possible Side Effects:

Only people who have reduced levels of stomach acid should take Betaine HCL. A nutritionally orientated doctor can diagnose this condition.

No adverse effects of this nutrient have been detected, although there is need for further studies. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or which is especially bothersome.

Contraindicated with stomach and duodenal ulcers