Betaine HCl is supplemental stomach acid for people with hypochlorhydria (low stomach acid).
Symptoms: bloating after meals, undigested food in stool, acid reflux (paradoxically, low acid causes LES relaxation).
Jonathan Wright protocol: start with 1 capsule (650mg) with protein-containing meal, increase by 1 capsule each meal until warmth felt in stomach, then back off 1 capsule.
NOT the same as betaine anhydrous (TMG), betaine HCl provides HCl for digestion, while TMG is a methyl donor.
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*Reviewed by the Avelor Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board*
*Last updated: 2026-04-06*