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Posted on Dec 30, 2005, 8 p.m.
By Bill Freeman
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Betaine HCl (hydrochloric acid) is used to increase the level of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. IMPORTANT: Do not consufe betaine HCl with the amino acid betaine (trimethylglycine). ROLE IN ANTI-AGING: The stomach needs a ready supply of hydrochloric acid (HCl) to convert the inactive precursor pepsinogen into the active digestive enzyme pepsin, which is needed for the digestion of protein.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Betaine HCl (hydrochloric acid) is used to increase the level of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.
IMPORTANT: Do not consufe betaine HCl with the amino acid betaine (trimethylglycine).
ROLE IN ANTI-AGING:
The stomach needs a ready supply of hydrochloric acid (HCl) to convert the inactive precursor pepsinogen into the active digestive enzyme pepsin, which is needed for the digestion of protein. HCl also protects the body from orally ingested pathogens, prevents bacterial and fungal overgrowth in the small intestine, and encourages the flow of both bile and pancreatic enzymes. It also helps the body to absorb folic acid, vitamin C, beta-carotene, iron, calcium, magnesium, and zinc.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:
Gastric acid deficiency increases the severity and risk of contracting certain bacterial and parasitic intestinal infections. There is some evidence suggesting that people with inadequate levels of gastric acid are more susceptible to allergies, asthma, indigestion, Candida (thrush), arthritis, and autoimmune disorders. People with chronic disorders, such as allergies, asthma, and gallstones, are most at risk from stomach acid deficiency. The elderly are also at risk as gastric acid levels tend to decline with age.
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
Betaine HCl should only be taken by people who have been diagnosed with hypochlorhydria - low levels of stomach acid. Betaine HCl is usually taken with a meal containing protein, the typical dose is 325-650mg.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL:
It is not recommended to take more than 650mg of betaine HCl unless advised to do so by a doctor.SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Large quantities of betaine HCl can burn the lining of the stomach. Thus, betaine HCl use should be stopped immediately if a burning sensation in the stomach is experienced while taking the supplement. Anyone suffering from, or with a history of, peptic ulcers, gastritis, and heartburn, should consult their doctor before taking betaine HCl. Furthermore, people taking drugs that can cause peptic ulcers, for example nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and cortisone-like drugs, should avoid betaine HCl.
