Betaine Hydrochloride Benefits

Betaine Hydrochloride (HCl) is a vitamin-like, organic component also known as hydrochloric acid. Betaine hydrochloride supplements can potentially lead to benefits promoted by both naturalistic and traditional medical doctors for insufficient stomach acid. Betaine Hydrochloride is especially useful as people get older since the parietal cells in the lining of the stomach produce less and less hydrochloric acid with age.

Combats Low Hydrochloric Acid

• Hydrochloric acid, commonly referred to as stomach acid, is an essential element of proper food digestion. Betatine HCl supplements can combat low body-produced HCl. Symptoms of low HCl include bloating, indigestion, intestinal gas, acne, itching around the rectum and chronic intestinal parasites. These symptoms can, in time, pave the way to full-blown diseases if not rectified. Also, people producing sub-par amounts of stomach acid are more likely to encounter bacterial and intestinal infections, in addition to intestinal parasites.

Fat and Protein Breakdown/Absorption

• Betaine HCl helps the stomach to break down fats and proteins. It is an essential component for metabolizing food, and is particularly needed for absorbing vitamin B12, calcium and iron. B12 deficiency can cause muscle weakness and fatigue in addition to other nervous system problems. Sufficient levels of stomach acid are also needed to assimilate proteins. Inability to properly absorb nutrients can lead to further and potentially serious health problems.

Digestion/Detoxification

• Betaine HCl is a significant digestive aid for those with poor diet, dehydration or generalized stress. Betaine HCl may provide lipotropic effects, aiding to prevent accumulation of fat in the liver, according to Encyclopedia.com. Lipotropics typically help in the detoxification of metabolic wastes and toxins and can help with weight loss.

Naturopathic Uses

• Betaine HCL is recommended for a multitude of issues including, but not limited to, asthma, excess candida, food allergies, hay fever and lupus. According to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, there is no conclusive scientific research on Betaine HCl effectiveness for any of these conditions.