Betaine Hydrochloride
Benefits of Betaine Hydrochloride
- Digestion
- Homocysteine metabolism*
- Food source: Beetroot, spinach, quinoa, wheat bran and wheatgerm.
What is Betaine Hydrochloride?
Betaine, also known as trimethylglycine (TMG), is a naturally occurring compound that the body makes from Choline. Betaine Hydrochloride (Betaine HCl) is betaine combined with hydrochloric acid, the acid naturally found in the stomach.
What does Betaine Hydrochloride do?
Betaine contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism.* Homocysteine is an amino acid made in the body. Betaine Hydrochloride has also traditionally been used in relation to digestion.
*The beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 1.5g of betaine.
Learn more about the most common GI (gastrointestinal) conditions. You may also enjoy reading 'What is GORD? Best 3 foods to eat and avoid'.
Why it's in GastroAid®
Betaine Hydrochloride (HCl) is used to aid digestion. Structurally, it consists of betaine (also known as trymethylglycine (TMG)), a naturally occurring compound derived from choline combined with hydrochloric acid. In clinical practice, Betaine HCl is used to address hypochlorhydria (low stomach acid levels), which may contribute to symptoms often associated with acid reflux. When gastric acid levels are insufficient, the digestive process is compromised, leading to symptoms mimicking gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD), including bloating, indigestion, and regurgitation. When ingested, Betaine HCl dissociates in the stomach into:
- Betaine, which is metabolised as a methyl donor and contributes to homocysteine metabolism.
- Hydrogen ions (H+) and chloride ions (Cl-), which combine to restore gastric acidity. This acidification mimics natural gastric acid, improving digestive efficiency without requiring stimulation of the parietal cells.
In acid reflux, Betaine HCl may benefit patients who experience symptoms due to:
- Poor LOS (lower oesopgaheal sphincter) tone.
- Delayed gastric emptying secondary to low acid production.
- Inefficient protein digestion leading to increased intra-abdominal pressure.
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