Betaine HCL for Stomach Acid Production
Betaine HCl is widely sold on a diagnosis most people do not have, and it carries real risk.
Overview
Verdict
How It Works
Dosing & Protocol
Typical dose
- Recommended dose
- Only under clinical supervision after testing
- Expected timeframe
- n/a without diagnosis
Protocol
- studied dose
- 1500 mg betaine HCL in one small pharmacology study in people on acid suppression
- evidence note
- Verdict is insufficient - and note that betaine HCL supplies acid rather than making the stomach produce it
- what happened
- A transient fall in gastric pH lasting under 30 minutes. No trial shows symptomatic or nutritional benefit
- who genuinely has low acid
- Autoimmune atrophic gastritis, long-term proton pump inhibitor use, and post-gastric surgery - all diagnosable, and all better managed with the underlying condition addressed and B12 and iron status monitored
- if a clinician supervises a trial
- Typically 650-1500 mg with protein-containing meals only, stopping immediately at any burning
Evidence
What the studies say
Betaine HCl restores gastric acidity during pharmacologically induced hypochlorhydria in healthy volunteers
Yago MR, Frymoyer AR, Smelick GS +5 more
Betaine HCl rapidly re-acidified the stomach, dropping gastric pH from above 5 to below 3 within minutes
Safety
Caveats
Can worsen ulcers and gastritis. Never combine with NSAIDs or acid suppressants.
Less likely to help if
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any supplement regimen.
Individual results may vary. The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products and information are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.