Digestive
Betaine HCl
Also known as: Betaine HCL, Betaine hydrochloride, HCL, HCl
Supplemental stomach acid for those with low acid production. Supports protein digestion and mineral absorption.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Betaine HCl product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thorne Berberine | 96 A | $1.47 |
| 2 | Thorne Berberine - 200 mg | 95 A | $0.73 |
| 3 | Nootropics Depot Acetyl L-Carnitine HCL (ALCAR) Capsules | 94 A | $0.22 |
| 4 | Nutricost Acetyl L-Carnitine Powder | 94 A | $0.08 |
| 5 | Nootropics Depot Acetyl L-Carnitine ALCAR Powder | 94 A | — |
| 6 | Nutricost Berberine Capsules | 93 A | $0.73 |
| 7 | Sports Research Vegan Berberine | 93 A | $0.66 |
| 8 | Nutricost Berberine HCI with Ceylon Cinnamon Capsules | 91 A | $0.47 |
| 9 | Pure Encapsulations Glucosamine HCl+ Chondroitin | 91 A | $0.24 |
| 10 | NOW Foods Glucosamine '1000' | 91 A | $0.19 |
| 11 | Thorne Liver Cleanse | 90 A | $0.45 |
| 12 | Nutricost Betaine HCI + Pepsin Capsules | 88 A | $0.08 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Betaine HCl should I take?
The typical range is 325-650 mg per protein meal. Find effective dose
When should I take Betaine HCl?
Middle of protein-containing meal. Yes, protein meals.
Which form of Betaine HCl is best?
Capsules with pepsin — Most common.
Is Betaine HCl safe?
Commonly reported: Warmth in stomach. Serious warnings: Don't use with ulcers or gastritis. Safe
Which Betaine HCl supplement scores highest?
Thorne Berberine, at 96/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Low stomach acid
- Protein digestion
- Mineral absorption
- GERD (low-acid type)
How it works
- Provides supplemental HCl
- Activates pepsin
- Improves mineral absorption
Dosage
- Typical range
- 325-650 mg per protein meal
- Timing
- Middle of protein-containing meal
- With food
- Yes, protein meals
- Duration
- Find effective dose
- Special populations
- Over 50, PPI users
Forms
- Capsules with pepsin
Safety
Common side effects
- Warmth in stomach
Contraindications
- Active ulcer
- Gastritis
- NSAIDs
Products containing Betaine HCl
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Betaine HCl on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Addresses hypochlorhydria
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
Related in Digestive
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.