Betaine HCL Challenge Test for Low Stomach Acid

Diagnostic Test

This is a more reliable test than the Bicarb Test and can also be done at home.

CAUTION: Do not do this one if you have active inflammation or on NSAIDs or Steroids.

1. Buy some Betaine HCL with pepsin
2. Eat a high protein meal of at least 6 ounces of meat
3. In the middle of the meal, take 1 Betaine HCL pill
4. Finish your meal as normal and pay attention to your body

There are two possible outcomes:

• The first is that you won’t notice anything. This means it is very likely you have low stomach acid levels.
• If you start to feel stomach distress characterized as heaviness, burning, or hotness – then these are signs that you don’t have low acid levels.

This test isn’t completely foolproof and should be repeated at least one more time on a different day to confirm the first test. One of the biggest causes of false test results is the amount of protein eaten at the meal, so make sure to eat a chunk of meat with the test. If you do get some burning, don’t worry it will pass in about an hour. You can also mix up a ½ teaspoon of baking soda and drink it to help stop the discomfort.

This resource is related to Course X: Gut Instincts. If you are interested in purchasing this course from our on-demand library of courses click here.

[Gastrointestinal Tract (GIT). Stomach. Stomach Acid. Betaine HCL Challenge Test.]