Betaine HCL or Betaine Hydrochloride is an acidic form of Betaine and is often used to support levels of stomach acid.

As we get older, our bodies begin to slow down and our stomachs are no exception. As we age hydrochloric acid production frequently declines, but remains important for the breakdown of food in the gut. Hydrochloric acid has several different functions; for example it sterilises the ingested food, acidifies it, and activates a powerful protease called Pepsin that breaks down protein as well as allowing vitamin B12 to be extracted from foodstuffs. The food then passes into the intestines, where it is further digested into the various nutrients ready for absorption.

Betaine HCL in supplement form will help to replace some of the lost acidity in the stomach, thus aiding the digestion of food by releasing hydrochloric acid after swallowing, the same acid that is produced naturally by the stomach.