Is betaine HCL good for acid reflux?

Our stomach acid contains HCL, which is a digestive fluid secreted by stomach parietal cells that breaks down dietary proteins. It has a pH level of 1 to 2.

Hypochlorhydria or low stomach acid is a condition where not enough stomach acid is produced. And there are many reason for that…

As we age our stomach produces less and less acid. Another reason is stress. People who suffer from anxiety or chronic stress may also develop Hypochlorhydria.

Certain acid blocking medications and PPI’s that are used on a daily basis can also disrupt the normal stomach acid production leading to chronic Hypochlorhydria. People with H. pylori infections are also more likely to have low stomach acid condition.

You must understand that this condition can lead to various digestive and health issues including gas and bloating, undigested food, nausea and nutrient deficiencies. It can also trigger heartburn.

So is betaine HCL good for acid reflux caused by low stomach acid ? Yes, but you have to know exactly when and how to take it. For example, people with ulcers should refrain from using betaine HCL so as not to cause further irritation.

You should not take betaine HCL on an empty stomach unless it is followed immediately by consuming a meal or half-way through the meal or right at the end of the meal. Either way, talk to your doctor before using betaine HCL just to make sure it is right for your particular condition.

Need guidance on how to control and manage your acid reflux? Check out my Heartburn No More program