Aging, illness, and the overuse of antacids can contribute to insufficient secretion of hydrochloric acid and pancreatic enzymes, resulting in incomplete digestion of food. This maldigestion can result in various health problems, including nutrient malabsorption, digestive problems (such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea), and vitamin deficiencies (particularly of the fat-soluble vitamins). Thorne offers hydrochloric acid and pure pepsin. Unlike many supplement companies, the pepsin utilized in Thorne's product is pure, undiluted, and lactose-free. Thorne's pure pancreatin is also lactose-free and has the highest potency and purity possible. These elements are combined in one formula, B.P.P., to help aid in overall digestion. Individuals who may be low in hydrochloric acid production and have malabsorption of protein, carbohydrates, and fats should consider B.P.P.

Hydrochloric acid secretion in the stomach does several positive things. It assists protein digestion by activating pepsinogen to pepsin, it renders the stomach sterile against ingested pathogens, it inhibits undesirable overgrowth in the small intestine, and it encourages the flow of bile and pancreatic enzymes. Hydrochloric acid also facilitates the absorption of a number of nutrients, including folate, vitamin B12, ascorbic acid, beta-carotene, iron, and some forms of calcium, magnesium, and zinc. Numerous studies have shown hydrochloric acid secretion in the stomach declines with advancing age. Overuse of antacids can also lead to low levels of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which can result in poor protein digestion.

Pancreatin is a mixture of several digestive enzymes produced by cells in the pancreas. Pancreatin is composed of amylase, lipase, and protease. Pancreatin production and secretion by the pancreas is essential to digestion and absorption of numerous nutrients, especially fats.