Betaine & Pepsin by Ortho Molecular Products

This fits people who suspect low stomach acid and get upper‑stomach fullness or protein-heavy meal bloating, especially if Vitamin B12 or Ferritin (iron stores) run low despite decent intake. Betaine HCl with pepsin is also useful after long stretches on acid blockers, in older adults with sluggish digestion, and in those with low stomach acid symptoms during high-protein diets. If you have burning reflux, active ulcers, or known H. pylori, this is the wrong tool until those are addressed.

Betaine HCl increases stomach acidity, which is the trigger for pepsin (your stomach’s protein-cutting enzyme) to activate. Added pepsin supplies extra enzyme to begin protein breakdown so the small intestine can finish the job. Better acidity improves absorption of Vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and magnesium, and helps keep upper–gut bacteria in check. Note: betaine HCl is not the same as trimethylglycine (the methyl-donor “betaine” used for homocysteine).

Take 1 capsule right before or with the first bites of a protein-containing meal. If you still feel heavy or gassy after similar meals, try 2 capsules at the next comparable meal. Skip low-protein snacks. Most people notice less post-meal fullness within 1–3 meals; nutrient markers like Vitamin B12, Methylmalonic Acid (a B12 status marker), and Ferritin change over weeks. If you feel chest warmth or heartburn, reduce the dose or stop.

Avoid if you have active gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, esophagitis, significant hiatal hernia with reflux, or positive H. pylori testing (breath or stool antigen) until treated. Don’t combine with proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers; they counteract each other. Use caution with frequent NSAID or steroid use due to ulcer risk. Pregnancy and nursing: skip. Vegans and many vegetarians should know pepsin is typically porcine-derived.