Our fresh formulation of Betaine HCl is truly vegetarian with no added pepsin, an enzyme traditionally derived from animal bile or tissue.Hydrochloric acid is an integral part of the digestive process but illness, poor diet (especially diets that are too acidic), overuse of antacids and stress can throw off the proper levels of its production. The symptoms of too little and too much hydrochloric acid often manifest with similar symptoms: acid reflux, heartburn, gas and other gastrointestinal discomforts. Low stomach acid is often the factor causing discomfort.With inadequate hydrochloric acid production, proteins will not be properly digested and the innate minerals, vitamins and other micronutrients will not be properly absorbed. Hydrochloric acid is also a critical immune defense, destroying pathogens in food. A lessened amount or lack of Hcl contributes to bacterial and fungal dysbiosis in the gut. This contributes to an imbalance in several metabolic pathways and the resulting disorders and symptoms often considered diseases. Betaine HCl, taken with meals, will eventually stimulate the body to restart innate production of hydrochloric acid. Betaine HCl is found in animals and plants and is especially high in beets (the name betaine is so called because it was first discovered in sugar beets), spinach and grains. Its primary role is to protect cellular integrity from stressors. In addition to digestive disorders, betaine may increase energy levels and help metabolize fatty acids. Because it is a methyl donor, supplementation with Betaine HCl helps reduce levels of homocysteine, high levels of which are believed to be associated with heart disease.