Does the acidity of certain supplements, for example Betaine HCl or vitamin C in the form of ascorbic acid cause any irritation to the gut?
Yes, it does! That is why these supplements need to be taken carefully and only when they are needed. Take Betaine HCl only with main meals when fats and meats in the meal will bind it. Don’t take Betaine HCl permanently, it is a temporary measure. In the long run restore your normal stomach acid production with cabbage juice, sauerkraut and other fermented cabbage recipes. I generally do not recommend ascorbic acid as it is an irritant to the gut lining. GAPS diet provides plenty of vitamin C in the food form (particularly when juicing is introduced). If you wish to take a supplement, it is better to have vitamin C in a whole natural form, such as acerola cherry powder.
