Best Betaine HCl Supplements (2026)

Betaine hydrochloride (Betaine HCl) is a supplemental source of hydrochloric acid designed to support stomach acid levels that naturally decline with age, stress, and certain dietary habits. Adequate stomach acid is essential for breaking down proteins, absorbing nutrients like B12, calcium, and iron, and maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria. For those dealing with low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria), the right Betaine HCl supplement can dramatically improve digestion.

Quick Comparison

Product	Betaine HCl Dose	Form	Best For	Rating
Designs for Health Betaine HCl with Pepsin	750 mg + Pepsin	Capsules	Best Overall	9.5/10
Thorne Betaine HCL & Pepsin	520 mg + Pepsin	Capsules	Best Premium	9.4/10
Solaray Betaine HCL with Pepsin	650 mg + Pepsin	Capsules	Best Value	9.3/10
Doctor’s Best Betaine HCl Pepsin & Gentian Bitters	650 mg + Pepsin + Gentian	Capsules	Best Comprehensive Formula	9.2/10
Pure Encapsulations Betaine HCl Pepsin	520 mg + Pepsin	Capsules	Best Hypoallergenic	9.1/10
NOW Foods Betaine HCl 648 mg	648 mg + Protease	Capsules	Best Vegetarian Formula	9.0/10
TMG Supplements Betaine Liquid Drops	1,000 mg TMG	Liquid Drops	Best Liquid Option	8.8/10

1. Designs for Health Betaine HCl with Pepsin – Best Overall

Designs for Health delivers the highest Betaine HCl dose per capsule (750 mg) with pepsin, from the #1 practitioner-recommended functional medicine brand.

Each capsule provides 750 mg of betaine hydrochloride alongside pepsin — a key protein-digestive enzyme naturally produced in the stomach. The formula is specifically designed to support digestive function and nutrient absorption when taken before meals. Recently upgraded from tablet to capsule form for better delivery to the stomach. Non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free. Trusted by functional medicine professionals as their top recommendation.

• Pros:
• Highest Betaine HCl dose per capsule at 750 mg
• #1 practitioner-recommended brand in functional medicine
• Clean formula — no gluten, dairy, or soy

• Cons:
• Premium pricing compared to consumer brands
• Contains porcine-derived pepsin — not suitable for vegetarians

Best for: Those working with functional medicine practitioners or seeking the highest-potency Betaine HCl available in a single capsule.

2. Thorne Betaine HCL & Pepsin – Best Premium

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Thorne’s physician-grade formula combines Betaine HCl with pepsin for reliable protein digestion support, backed by one of the most respected brands in clinical nutrition.

Each capsule provides 520 mg of betaine HCl with pepsin for comprehensive digestive enzyme support. The 225-capsule bottle provides an exceptional long-term supply — lasting 75+ days even at three capsules daily. Thorne’s manufacturing standards exceed FDA requirements, with every batch tested for potency, purity, and dissolution. NSF Certified for Sport on select products. Free from gluten, soy, dairy, and artificial preservatives.

• Pros:
• 225-capsule bottle — outstanding long-term supply
• Thorne’s rigorous manufacturing exceeds FDA standards
• Trusted by healthcare professionals and elite athletes

• Cons:
• Lower per-capsule dose than Designs for Health (520 mg vs 750 mg)
• Premium price point for the brand quality

Best for: Health-conscious individuals who value clinical-grade quality and want a large bottle from a physician-trusted brand.

3. Solaray Betaine HCL with Pepsin – Best Value

Solaray delivers a potent 650 mg Betaine HCl with 162 mg pepsin in up to 275 VegCaps — the best balance of potency and affordability.

Each vegetarian capsule provides 650 mg of betaine hydrochloride and 162 mg of pepsin for dual-action digestive support. Available in 100, 250, and 275-count bottles, with the largest size providing outstanding per-serving value. Manufactured in Solaray’s GMP-certified facility in Ogden, Utah, and tested in their own state-of-the-art lab for purity and potency. Bottles are made from post-consumer recycled resin as part of Solaray’s sustainability commitment.

• Pros:
• Excellent price per serving, especially in larger bottle sizes
• 650 mg Betaine HCl with 162 mg pepsin per capsule
• Tested in Solaray’s own lab for verified purity and potency

• Cons:
• Large capsule size may be challenging for some users
• Contains maltodextrin as a filler ingredient

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want strong digestive support without sacrificing potency or quality assurance.

4. Doctor’s Best Betaine HCl Pepsin & Gentian Bitters – Best Comprehensive Formula

Doctor’s Best adds gentian bitters — a traditional digestive herb — to the standard Betaine HCl and pepsin combination for three-way digestive support.

Each capsule provides 650 mg betaine HCl, 25 mg pepsin, and 20 mg gentian root (Gentiana lutea). Gentian is a bitter herb traditionally used to stimulate the body’s own production of digestive enzymes, adding a dimension of support beyond acid supplementation alone. Available in 120 and 360-count bottles. Non-GMO, gluten-free, and manufactured under strict quality controls.

• Pros:
• Three-ingredient formula with added gentian root for enzyme stimulation
• Available in a 360-count bottle for extended supply
• Affordable pricing for a multi-ingredient digestive formula

• Cons:
• Gelatin capsule — not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
• Lower pepsin dose (25 mg) compared to some competitors

Best for: Those who want a comprehensive digestive support formula that stimulates natural enzyme production alongside acid supplementation.

5. Pure Encapsulations Betaine HCl Pepsin – Best Hypoallergenic

Pure Encapsulations delivers a clean, allergen-free Betaine HCl and pepsin formula designed for the most sensitive digestive systems.

Each vegetarian capsule provides 520 mg of betaine HCl with 21 mg of lactose-free porcine pepsin (1:10,000 potency). The formula eliminates all common allergens, artificial ingredients, and GMOs. Recommended dosing is one capsule three times daily with meals. The 250-capsule bottle provides approximately 83 days of use at full dosing. Trusted by functional medicine practitioners and recommended for those with multiple food sensitivities.

• Pros:
• Hypoallergenic — free from gluten, dairy, soy, and all major allergens
• 250-capsule bottle for excellent long-term supply
• Practitioner-grade quality from a premium brand

• Cons:
• Contains porcine pepsin — not suitable for vegetarians
• Higher price per serving than mainstream brands

Best for: Individuals with food sensitivities, autoimmune conditions, or complex health situations requiring ultra-clean supplementation.

6. NOW Foods Betaine HCl 648 mg – Best Vegetarian Formula

NOW Foods offers a fully vegetarian Betaine HCl formula using fungal-derived protease instead of animal-sourced pepsin.

Each two-capsule serving provides 1,296 mg of betaine HCl with 300 SAPU of acid-stable protease derived from Aspergillus niger (a vegetarian-friendly alternative to pepsin with equivalent protein-digesting activity). The 240-capsule bottle provides a 120-day supply at the standard two-capsule serving. Made in a GMP-certified facility and free from major allergens including wheat, soy, milk, eggs, fish, and shellfish.

• Pros:
• Fully vegetarian — uses fungal protease instead of animal-derived pepsin
• 240 capsules provide a 4-month supply at standard dosing
• 1,296 mg total Betaine HCl per two-capsule serving

• Cons:
• Requires two capsules per serving
• Fungal protease may differ slightly in activity from animal pepsin

Best for: Vegetarians and vegans who need Betaine HCl with enzyme support but want to avoid animal-derived ingredients.

7. Nutricost Betaine HCl + Pepsin – Best Budget Pick

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Nutricost delivers a straightforward Betaine HCl with pepsin formula at one of the lowest prices per capsule on the market.

Each capsule provides 790 mg of combined betaine HCl and pepsin. The 240-capsule bottle provides an extended supply for everyday digestive support. Manufactured in a GMP-compliant, FDA-registered facility with third-party testing for potency and purity. Vegetarian capsules, non-GMO, and gluten-free. No unnecessary fillers or additives.

• Pros:
• One of the most affordable Betaine HCl + pepsin options available
• 240-capsule bottle for long-term value
• Clean formula with third-party testing

• Cons:
• Less brand recognition than Thorne or Pure Encapsulations
• Pepsin dose not separately listed — combined total only

Best for: Budget-minded buyers seeking simple, effective Betaine HCl supplementation without premium branding costs.

8. Enzyme Science Betaine HCl – Best with Mucosave Protection

Enzyme Science uniquely adds Mucosave FG — a botanical blend that protects the gastrointestinal lining — alongside vegan pepsin and Betaine HCl.

This formula stands out by combining HCl and vegan pepsin with Mucosave FG, a natural botanical blend designed to protect the GI mucosal lining while optimizing stomach conditions. This addresses a common concern with Betaine HCl — potential irritation of sensitive stomach tissue. The 120-capsule bottle provides a multi-month supply. Gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan. From the practitioner division of Enzymedica, an original pioneer of supplemental enzymes.

• Pros:
• Mucosave FG protects stomach lining during acid supplementation
• Vegan pepsin — suitable for plant-based diets
• Addresses both digestion support and GI tissue protection

• Cons:
• Higher price for the added Mucosave ingredient
• Betaine HCl dose per capsule is lower than some competitors

Best for: Those with sensitive stomachs who want Betaine HCl supplementation with built-in GI lining protection.

How to Choose the Best Betaine HCl Supplement

Dosage is the most critical factor. Most Betaine HCl supplements range from 250–750 mg per capsule. Start with the lowest dose (one capsule with a protein-containing meal) and gradually increase if needed. Many practitioners recommend the “HCl challenge” — gradually increasing dosage until a mild warming sensation is felt in the stomach, then backing down by one capsule. Typical therapeutic doses range from 650–3,250 mg per meal.

Most Betaine HCl supplements include pepsin, a protein-digesting enzyme that works synergistically with stomach acid. Some products use animal-derived pepsin (from porcine sources) while others use vegetarian alternatives like fungal protease. Both are effective, but vegetarians should specifically seek products labeled as using plant-based or fungal enzymes. For broader digestive support, consider supplements with added ox bile for fat digestion.

Quality and purity matter with Betaine HCl. Look for products from GMP-certified facilities with third-party testing. Hypoallergenic options from brands like Pure Encapsulations are ideal for sensitive individuals. If you experience acid reflux, note that some functional medicine practitioners believe low stomach acid (not excess acid) may actually cause reflux symptoms — but always work with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate approach for your situation.

Betaine HCl should only be taken with meals containing protein — never on an empty stomach or with meals consisting only of fruit or salad. It should be avoided by those with active stomach ulcers, gastritis, or those taking NSAIDs or corticosteroids. For comprehensive digestive support, pair Betaine HCl with a broad-spectrum digestive enzyme and probiotics for a complete gut health regimen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Betaine HCl and what does it do?

Betaine HCl (betaine hydrochloride) is a supplemental source of hydrochloric acid — the same acid your stomach naturally produces to break down food. It’s used to support proper digestion in people with low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria), which can result from aging, chronic stress, certain medications, or poor diet. Adequate stomach acid is essential for protein digestion, nutrient absorption (especially B12, iron, and calcium), and maintaining healthy gut bacteria.

How much Betaine HCl should I take daily?

Start with one capsule (typically 500–750 mg) at the beginning of a protein-containing meal. If no warming sensation is felt, the dose can be gradually increased by one capsule per meal, up to about five capsules. When a mild warmth is noticed, reduce by one capsule — that’s your target dose. Individual needs vary widely, from 650 mg to 3,250 mg per meal.

When is the best time to take Betaine HCl?

Take Betaine HCl at the beginning of a meal or midway through a meal that contains protein. Never take it on an empty stomach or with meals that are only salad or fruit. The acid needs food — particularly protein — to work with. Taking it before the first bite or within the first few minutes of eating is optimal.

Are there any side effects of Betaine HCl?

The most common side effect is a warm or burning sensation in the stomach, which indicates the dose is too high and should be reduced. Betaine HCl should not be used by people with active stomach ulcers, gastritis, or those taking NSAIDs, aspirin, or corticosteroids. Mild digestive discomfort can occur when first starting supplementation.

Can I take Betaine HCl with other supplements?

Betaine HCl pairs well with digestive enzymes (protease, lipase, amylase) and ox bile for comprehensive digestive support. It can also be combined with probiotics, though probiotics are often better taken between meals. Avoid combining with antacids or proton pump inhibitors, as these work in the opposite direction by reducing stomach acid.

How long does it take for Betaine HCl to work?

Betaine HCl works almost immediately — within minutes of taking it with food. Improved protein digestion, reduced bloating, and less post-meal heaviness are often noticed from the very first properly dosed meal. Over several weeks of consistent use, improvements in nutrient absorption (especially B12 and iron levels) may become measurable through blood work.

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