It is estimated that almost one-third of Canadians suffer from low stomach acidity.1 This condition occurs when an individual’s stomach
is unable to produce a sufficient amount of stomach acid (hydrochloric acid)
for the proper functioning of the digestive system. Baby boomers and seniors
are the groups most commonly afflicted by low stomach acidity, as aging and the
frequent use of medications can reduce the stomach’s acid producing
capability.1
Common signs of low stomach acidity are reflected in a variety of poor digestion symptoms. Bloating, belching and flatulence after
meals, indigestion, heartburn, diarrhea or constipation, undigested food in the
stool, and food allergies are all associated with insufficient stomach acid.
There are serious health concerns that can result from low stomach acidity. One is the poor absorption of minerals and vitamins,
particularly calcium, iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid. Just recently, certain
ulcer drugs that lower stomach acid production were linked to a 41% reduction in calcium absorption in women.
2 Poor absorption of minerals and vitamins can
lead to malnutrition and a host of health problems. A second concern is that
low stomach acidity has been found to adversely affect the immune system of
seniors. Because food borne bacteria and parasites thrive in an environment of
low stomach acidity, risk of a related infection is increased.
3
Many health care professionals recommend betaine hydrochloride supplementation to maintain proper stomach acid production.
Betaine hydrochloride is a vitamin-like nutrient found naturally in grains and
contains hydrochloric acid.
One way to alleviate digestive problems is to supplement with a full spectrum digestive enzyme containing added betaine hydrochloride. A
full spectrum digestive enzyme typically contains a complex of enzymes to break
down the major food substances – proteins, fats, carbohydrates, lactose and
plant materials. The addition of betaine hydrochloride to such a supplement
will help those with low stomach acidity by ensuring a more productive
digestive environment. Betaine hydrochloride also helps to activate enzymes for
improved digestion. For a more serious stomach acidity problem, your health
care professional may recommend a high dose betaine hydrochloride supplement.
1. Cathy Wong, N.D., Alternative Medicine.
http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/digestiveproblems/a/LowHCL.htm
2. American Journal of Medicine (2005; 118; 778-81)
3. US Food and Drug Administration, Seniors and Food Safety (May 1999)
