Douglas Laboratories Betaine Hydrochloride is a powdered dietary supplement of hydrochloric acid supplied in two-piece gelatin capsules. Hydrochloric acid aids in the digestion of food in the stomach. 

The breakdown of dietary protein begins in the stomach where gastric hydrochloric acid assumes an important role in protein digestion and other processes.

Hydrochloric acid acts as a catalyst in the activation of pepsin from pepsinogen. Active pepsin is a proteolytic enzyme which splits large protein molecules into smaller polypeptides.

Additionally, hydrochloric acid acts directly on dietary proteins by loosening up their macromolecular structure (denaturing). Gastric hydrochloric acid also helps reduce poorly available trivalent ferric iron into more soluble and absorbable divalent ferrous iron.

Another physiological role of gastric hydrochloric acid is to protect the body from food-borne enteric infections through its antibacterial properties.

Ingredients:

Serving Size 1 capsule

Amount Per Serving   ........     %DV

Betadine Hydrochloride.............648 mg......**

*Daily Value not established.

Other Ingredients:

Cellulose, gelatin (capsule), water, magnesium stearate and silica.

Suggested Use:

One capsule just before or during each meal, or as directed by physician.

Side Effects:

No adverse side effects have been reported.

Storage:

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light. Keep out of reach of children.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to treat, mitigate, diagnose or cure any disease.