Stomach acid or Hydrochloric Acid (HCL) is a powerful digestive agent. A healthy stomach contains HCL in an adequate concentration to maintain a pH between 1 and 2. Low levels of HCL can lead to improperly, incompletely, or poorly digest food fragments that may cause an imbalance in the growth of normal bacterial flora in the intestines. With age, stomach acid secretion tends to decrease. Result: low stomach acid, poor digestion, mineral deficiency, and disease, in that order. What to do? Our HCL Betaine helps make minerals and nutrients more absorbable. Achieving the correct balance of flora is a key to maintaining proper digestive function and overall health. Note: HCL Betaine is the same thing as our Hydrochloric Acid 5% (below), only in capsule form. Most users report better results with the capsules. For best results take with Pepsin. [link to Pepsin and vice versa: Pepsin is often taken together with HCL Betaine for extra digestive power] Warnings: Only take if you have lower-than-normal gastric acid. Immediately stop use if you experience adverse reactions. Do not take if on any kind of anti-inflammatory medication. Caution: As with any dietary or herbal supplement, you should advise your health care practitioner of the use of this product. If you have ulcers, gallstones or are nursing, pregnant, or considering pregnancy, you should consult your health care provider prior to taking this product.