are you suggesting that altough I feel heartburn i must continue betaine or digestive bitters? I think this could lead to gastritis..
The most common cause of gastritis is infection from a lack of stomach acid. The most common cause of esophageal reflux is also a lack of stomach acid.
I am not a big fan of betaine HCl though. I prefer the bitters, zinc, TMG and a source of B vitamins such as rice bran or oat bran. Increasing stomach acidity cuts down on the fermentation that leads to the reflux.
But in the end the decision of what to do is yours. I am merely presenting the facts. Research them then you can make an informed decision.