Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Hydrochloric acid (HCL), commonly in the form of betaine HCL supplements, is used to support appetite and digestive function, primarily in cases where low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria) is suspected to contribute to poor appetite and indigestion. Scientifically, gastric acid plays a crucial role in the initial phases of digestion, including the breakdown of proteins and activation of digestive enzymes such as pepsin. Adequate gastric acid levels are also important for triggering the release of gastrin, a hormone that stimulates appetite.

Some studies and clinical observations suggest that individuals with low stomach acid may experience symptoms such as loss of appetite, bloating, and incomplete digestion. Supplementation with HCL has been shown in small clinical trials and anecdotal reports to potentially restore gastric acidity, improve digestive efficiency, and, in turn, support appetite. However, robust large-scale randomized clinical trials specifically addressing HCL supplementation for appetite improvement are lacking. Most available evidence is indirect, based on the physiological importance of gastric acid for normal digestive signaling and appetite regulation rather than direct clinical trials for appetite enhancement.

In summary, the scientific rationale for using HCL to treat deficient appetite is plausible and based on the known functions of gastric acid, but direct evidence in the form of high-quality clinical trials is limited, warranting a moderate evidence rating.

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