Synopsis

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

Pepsin is a digestive enzyme that breaks down proteins in the stomach and is naturally produced by the body. Supplementation with pepsin, often in combination with betaine hydrochloride (HCl), has been used to support digestion, particularly in cases where low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria) is suspected to contribute to indigestion or dyspepsia. The rationale is that some individuals may not produce enough gastric acid or pepsin, leading to incomplete digestion of proteins and resulting in symptoms like bloating or discomfort.

The scientific evidence supporting pepsin supplementation for general indigestion is limited. A few small studies and case reports have suggested that betaine HCl with pepsin may help normalize gastric acidity and improve symptoms in people with clinically confirmed low stomach acid. However, there is a lack of robust, large-scale, placebo-controlled trials specifically investigating pepsin’s efficacy in treating generic indigestion. In most individuals with normal stomach function, supplemental pepsin is likely unnecessary and may not improve symptoms. Major clinical guidelines do not routinely recommend pepsin for indigestion.

In summary, while there is some biological plausibility and limited clinical evidence for the use of pepsin in people with confirmed hypochlorhydria, the overall scientific support for its use in treating general indigestion is modest. Most of the use is extrapolated from its known role in protein digestion rather than from strong clinical trials.

More about pepsin
More about Indigestion

Other ingredients used for Indigestion

Other health conditions supported by pepsin

Products containing pepsin

Thorne Advanced Digestive Enzymes Bio-Gest
Integrative Therapeutics Betaine HCL
Pure Encapsulations Betaine HCl Pepsin
Thorne Betaine HCL/Pepsin
Designs For Health Betaine HCl
Designs For Health Digestzymes™
Designs For Health Digestzymes™
Designs For Health Digestzymes™
Thorne Multi Enzyme B.P.P.
Integrative Therapeutics Panplex 2-Phase
Metagenics SpectraZyme Betaine HCI + Pepsin
Metagenics SpectraZyme Metagest
Vitabase SuperZymes