Betaine HCL

Appearance: White to slightly yellow hygroscopic crystalline powder or crystals, odorless or with a faint characteristic odor.

Solubility: Highly soluble in water (approximately 64.7 g/100 mL at 25°C), also soluble in alcohol

Melting point: 241–242°C 

• Key nutritional facts from dietary supplements containing Betaine HCl typically show:

  • Calories: About 1 calorie per serving (e.g., 2 tablets)

  • Macronutrients: Negligible amounts of protein, fat, carbohydrates, or sugars

  • Active Ingredient: Betaine Hydrochloride, usually in the range of 300-700 mg per serving depending on formulation

  • Additional Ingredients: May include agents like microcrystalline cellulose (fiber), pepsin enzyme in some products, and various excipients, none of which contribute significant calories

The benefits of Betaine Hydrochloride (Betaine HCl) mainly relate to its role in improving digestive health through increasing stomach acid levels. Key benefits include:

• Promotes Digestion: Betaine HCl helps maintain the stomach’s acidic pH (typically between 1.5 and 3.5), which is crucial for activating digestive enzymes that effectively break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. This can alleviate symptoms associated with low stomach acid, such as bloating, gas, indigestion, acid reflux, and constipation.

• Enhances Nutrient Absorption: By boosting stomach acidity, betaine HCl facilitates better absorption of vital nutrients including vitamin B12, calcium, iron, magnesium, and other minerals. This is especially helpful for individuals who have reduced stomach acid due to aging, certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs, proton pump inhibitors), or medical conditions.

• Supports Immune Function: Adequate stomach acid acts as a barrier to harmful microbes and pathogens ingested with food. Betaine HCl helps maintain this defense by preventing microbial overgrowth and infections in the gastrointestinal tract.

• Improves Protein Digestion: When combined with pepsin, a protein-digesting enzyme activated by acidic conditions, betaine HCl enhances the breakdown of proteins into amino acids important for bodily functions.

• May Provide Temporary Relief for Hypochlorhydria: Betaine HCl supplements can quickly restore stomach acidity in cases of low stomach acid but usually for a limited time. Long-term correction depends on addressing underlying causes of hypochlorhydria.