Thorne Betaine HCL & Pepsin Review

Thorne's Betaine HCl and Pepsin is a combination of hydrochloric acid and the digestive enzyme pepsin, offered to help with proper protein digestion and to support a healthy stomach acid level. The product is presented as a way to help the body digest a meal when it is taken with food. According to the page, taking Betaine HCl and Pepsin with a meal helps ensure proper digestion and may reduce occasional digestive upset such as gas, bloating or indigestion. The listed benefits include support for healthy hydrochloric acid levels in the stomach, a promotion of an optimal stomach pH level to help the absorption of micronutrients in the intestines, support for normal protein digestion, support for healthy gut microbiome balance, and help with food sensitivities by breaking large proteins into smaller peptides that can be absorbed. The page names two groups who may benefit. The first is people who experience occasional gas, bloating or indigestion, especially after high protein meals. The second is people with decreased stomach acid production, such as from advancing age or after the use of antacids. The product is described as lactose-free and as containing undiluted pepsin. The page explains indigestion as often triggered by fatty foods, simple carbohydrates or spicy foods, but it also raises the possibility that the discomfort may be linked to low hydrochloric acid content in the stomach. It notes that situations such as gallbladder removal, use of antacids and normal aging can reduce stomach acid secretion, which may affect digestive enzyme activity and lead to poor protein digestion. The page also states that maldigestion can lead to poor absorption of micronutrients, particularly the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. The product is said to be third-party tested and certified to verify that the contents match the label and that it contains no unsafe levels of contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides and microorganisms. The warnings section states that the product is contraindicated in anyone with a history of hypersensitivity to its ingredients. Pregnant people are advised to consult a health-care practitioner before use. The page advises that it should not be used at the same time as H2-blocking drugs or meds, because those drugs are intended to block stomach acid production. It is also contraindicated in people with peptic ulcers. The page further advises against removing the powder from the capsule to take it by mouth, because the powder can irritate the oral mucosa. The listed pack is 225 capsules at $47, with a subscription option at $42.30.