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Betaine a vitamin-type compound found in grains and other foods.
Betaine hydrochloride is the acidic form of betaine. Betaine
hydrochloride is is primary prescribed as a supplemental source of
hydrochloric acid for people who have difficulty digesting due to a
lack of stomach acide.
Lower than normal levels of gastric
acid secretion in the digestive track increases the likelihood and
severity of certain bacterial and parasitic infections in the
intestinal track. Most people have enough gastric acid to destroy
bacteria. Those that do not have enough hydrochlorid acid in their
digestive track can suffer from bacterial colonization of the
stomach.
Dosage and
Administration
Betaine Hydrochloride is the most
common health supplement containing hydrochloric acid. Depending on
your the condition of the patient, some doctors recommend taking one
or more tablets or capsules, each 5 to 10 grains (325-650 mg), with
a meal that contains protein. Occasionally, betaine
(trimethylglycine) is recommended to reduce blood levels of a
substance called homocysteine, which is associated with heart
disease. This form of betaine is different from betaine
HCl.
Side Effects
People should not
take more than 10 grains (650 mg) of betaine HCl without the
recommendation of a doctor. Individuals with a history of peptic
ulcers, gastritis, or gastrointestinal symptoms—particularly
heartburn—should see a doctor before taking betaine HCl. Too much
betaine HCl can burn the lining of the stomach. If a burning
sensation is experienced, betaine HCl should be immediately
discontinued. Betain should nat be taken in conjunction with any
other gastrointestinal drugs or products.
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