BETAINE HCL/GLUTAMIC HCL are two forms of hydrochloric acid. HCl is naturally secreted by gastric parietal cells and although it does not digest food, it is essential for creating the right environment for supporting digestive processes.

HCl activates pepsin, the enzyme that assists in the denaturing of dietary proteins and also protects the body from microorganisms. Glutamic HCl has been reported to be gentler on the stomach than other forms of supplemental
HCl. Betaine, or trimethylglycine, acts not only as a carrier for hydrochloric acid, but also as a methyl donor for important liver detoxification pathways. HCl secretion naturally decreases with age, predisposing patients to poor digestion, intestinal microbial overgrowth, and other uncomfortable systemic symptoms.

PEPSIN is a protein-digesting enzyme in the stomach. It’s responsible for the hydrolysis of proteins into peptides. The HCl in PanZyme acts to enhance the conversion of endogenous inactive pepsinogen to active pepsin.

PANCREATIN is a mixture of several digestive enzymes produced by the exocrine pancreas. The pancreas is a large gland located behind the stomach that secretes digestive enzymes into the small intestine, facilitating the breakdown of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. In patients with impaired pancreatic function, digestion and absorption of essential nutrients may become severely impaired. For patients with pancreatic insufficiency or food allergies, supplementation of a mild digestive enzyme blend can enhance nutrient uptake as well as gastrointestinal comfort. In addition, anyone who consumes a diet high in processed foods may benefit from enzyme supplementation. Historically, humans consumed much higher levels of raw, plant-based foods than they do today. When these raw foods were consumed with meals, the natural enzymes present would assist the digestive processes. As Americans have decreased their intake of enzymes from raw foods, they have created the need for additional pancreatic enzyme secretion. Research suggests that the excess demand placed on the digestive organs over time can increase the risk of illness related to the intestines and pancreas.

... Click here to continue reading