What is HCl supplement used for?

What is HCl supplement used for?

Summary. Betaine HCl is a lab-made supplement used to increase stomach acid. Some health experts have suggested that it can treat hypochlorhydria, as well as other medical conditions.

How much betaine HCl should I take a day?

Adults, teenagers, and children 3 years of age and older—The starting dose is usually 3 grams taken two times a day with meals. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. Children younger than 3 years of age—The dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. Betaine should be taken with meals.

What are the benefits of taking betaine HCl?

Wright, supplementing with betaine HCl (a compound that contains hydrochloric acid) often relieves the symptoms of heartburn and improves digestion, at least in people who have hypochlorhydria (low stomach acid). The amount of betaine HCl used varies with the size of the meal and with the amount of protein ingested.

Is betaine HCl over the counter?

Betaine hydrochloride was previously available as an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine to increase stomach acid in people with low stomach acid. But the US FDA banned its use in OTC products due to a lack of information about whether it is safe and effective.

When should you take HCl?

Supplements and Dosage

1. It’s best to start using HCL supplements while you’re under the care of a physician.
2. Most people can benefit from taking HCL with pepsin in doses of one 650-milligram pill prior to each meal.
3. Start with a low dose, usually about one capsule with your biggest meal of the day.

Is HCl safe to take?

Taking it before a meal may create a false experience of heartburn and can turn off stomach acid production for this meal. Caution: Do not take HCL if you are taking any NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, Tylenol, or aspirin. HCl with pepsin. Add these to your diet when you consume protein.

When should you not take betaine HCl?

People should not take more than 10 grains (650 mg) of betaine HCl without the recommendation of a physician. All people with a history of peptic ulcers, gastritis, or gastrointestinal symptoms—particularly heartburn—should see a doctor before taking betaine HCl.

How do I know if I need HCl?

Symptoms of Low Hydrochloric Acid (Stomach Acid)

1. Bloating or belching immediately following a meal.
2. Acid reflux.
3. An excessive sense of fullness after eating.
4. Feeling like food sits in the stomach forever.
5. Gas after food.
6. Iron and B12 deficiency, chronic anemia.
7. Chronic constipation.
8. Undigested food in the stool.

How do you know if you need betaine HCl?

Burning, heat, or heaviness in your chest likely indicate adequate stomach acid levels. It is recommended to repeat the betaine HCl challenge two or three times to confirm your results. Three positive tests are a good indication of low stomach acid.

How can I increase HCl in my stomach naturally?

6 natural ways to increase stomach acid

1. Try HCL supplements. According to a 2015 review , older adults have a higher risk of developing digestive conditions that reduce their stomach acid levels.
2. Increase zinc intake.
3. Take probiotics.
4. Eat ginger.
5. Limit refined carbohydrate intake.
6. Chew thoroughly.

How long should you take HCl?

If you notice any improvements in your symptoms, continue to take betaine HCl. If there is no improvement in your symptoms after two weeks, stop taking the supplement.

When should I take HCl?

Always take the betaine HCL either half-way through the meal or right at the end of the meal. Taking it before a meal may create a false experience of heartburn and can turn off stomach acid production for this meal. Caution: Do not take HCL if you are taking any NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, Tylenol, or aspirin.

How long should I take HCl?

How can I increase my stomach HCl naturally?

5 ways to improve stomach acid

1. Limit processed foods. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can also increase your stomach acid levels.
2. Eat fermented vegetables. Fermented vegetables — such as kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickles — can naturally improve your stomach acid levels.
3. Drink apple cider vinegar.
4. Eat ginger.

How long should you take betaine HCl?

How can I increase my HCl naturally?

What foods contain HCl?

The food industry uses hydrochloric acid to process a variety of food products, such as corn syrups used in soft drinks, cookies, crackers, ketchup and cereals. Hydrochloric acid is also used as an acidifier in sauces, vegetable juices and canned goods, to help enhance flavor and reduce spoilage.

How can I increase HCl in my stomach?

What is the fastest way to increase stomach acid?

5 ways to improve stomach acid

1. Chew your food. A simple but overlooked tip to improve stomach acid levels and digestion is to thoroughly chew your food.
2. Limit processed foods.
3. Eat fermented vegetables.
4. Drink apple cider vinegar.
5. Eat ginger.

How can I get HCl naturally?