Betaine HCl & Pepsin from Thorne Research is in capsule form is for supporting enhanced acidification and protein digestion.

Betaine hydrochloride is also known as hydrochloric acid (HCL) or stomach acid. It helps digest food by breaking up fats and proteins.

The low pH of the stomachs hydrochloric acid also destroys ingested bacteria and other microorganisms. Adequate levels of HCL are necessary for adequate absorption of protein, calcium, vitamin B12 and iron.

* enhances stomach acidity

* promotes protein breakdown and absorption

* benefits individuals with occasional indigestion

Betaine HCl and Pepsin from Thorne Research is made without lactose, preservatives, magnesium stearate, or other lubricants and diluents

Indigestion affects millions of people every day. For some, eating fatty foods can bring on heartburn. For others, simple carbohydrates (like bread and pasta) may cause gas and bloating. And for other individuals, spicy foods can cause them grief. Although what we eat greatly influences the frequency and severity of indigestion, this discomfort could be related to an underlying problem – poor digestive enzyme activity.

Situations such as illness, gall bladder removal, overuse of antacids, and normal aging can contribute to insufficient secretion of stomach acid, pancreatic enzymes, and bile, and can adversely affect digestive enzyme activity and lead to occasional heartburn, gas, bloating, and other forms of gastrointestinal discomfort.

Maldigestion can lead to digestive problems and poor absorption of nutrients, resulting in vitamin deficiencies (particularly fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E, and K). Food allergies can develop when inadequately digested proteins are absorbed through the gut. As large proteins are absorbed intact, the body might recognize them as foreign and create antibodies to them, resulting in an allergic response to the food. An individual who has frequent indigestion should make sure to have adequate enzyme support.

Hydrochloric acid secretion in the stomach does several positive things. It assists protein digestion by activating pepsinogen to pepsin, it renders the stomach sterile against ingested pathogens, it inhibits undesirable overgrowth in the small intestine, and it encourages the flow of bile and pancreatic enzymes. Hydrochloric acid also facilitates the absorption of a number of nutrients, including folate, vitamin B12, ascorbic acid, beta-carotene, iron, and some forms of calcium, magnesium, and zinc. Numerous studies have shown hydrochloric acid secretion in the stomach declines with advancing age. Overuse of antacids can also lead to low levels of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which can result in poor protein digestion. Thorne offers hydrochloric acid and pure pepsin from a porcine source. Unlike many supplement companies, the pepsin utilized in Thorne’s product is pure, undiluted, and lactose-free.

Contraindication: This product is contraindicated in patients with peptic ulcers.

Risk Information: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a health professional prior to use. If you have a peptic ulcer or excess stomach acid, or if you have high cholesterol, consult a health professional prior to use. If you have gastrointestinal lesions/ulcers, are taking anticoagulant agents or anti-inflammatory agents, or are having surgery, consult a health professional prior to use. Hypersensitivity (e.g. allergy) has been known to occur; in which case, discontinue use.

Keep out of reach of children. Store tightly sealed in a cool, dry place.

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