Hydrochloric Acid

Hydrochloric Acid, HCl, is a strong Mineral Acid produced by the Parietal Cells of the Stomach.  It comprises 0.2% - 0.5% of Gastric Juice. 

Digestive System

 Hydrochloric Acid regulates the acidity of the Stomach to optimize Digestion.  This occurs primarily through Hydrochloric Acid stimulating the conversion of Pepsinogen to Pepsin (a Proteolytic (Protein-digesting) Enzyme).

Immune System

 Hydrochloric Acid may destroy some Microorganisms - Detrimental that gain entrance into the body via the Mouth:  ^[1]

 Hydrochloric Acid may kill some forms of Bacteria - Detrimental in the Stomach and Small Intestine:   Hydrochloric Acid is likely to be important in suppressing Campylobacter jejuni.
 Hydrochloric Acid may suppress or kill Helicobacter pylori (Hypochlorhydria (lack of Hydrochloric Acid) patients have increased levels of Helicobacter pylori).  ^[2]

Oral Health

 Hydrochloric Acid deficiency may cause Periodontal Disease (by decreasing the absorption of Calcium in the Alveolar Bone). 

Skin

 Supplemental Hydrochloric Acid may be useful for the treatment of Hives (as many cases of Hives are believed to occur as a result of Food Allergies resulting from the insufficient endogenous production of Hydrochloric Acid).  ^[3]

 Vitiligo patients are often found to have sub-optimal levels of Hydrochloric Acid in their Stomachs and replenishment of Hydrochloric Acid (15 cc with each meal) has resulted in many cures of Vitiligo.  ^[4]