Question

Explain the role of acid in our stomach.

Answer 1

Stomach Acid:

1. Stomach acid, also known as gastric acid, is a colorless, watery fluid generated by the lining of the stomach.
2. It's very acidic and aids digestion by breaking down meals. This makes it easier for your body to absorb nutrients when food passes through your digestive tract.

Role of Acid in our Stomach:

1. Stomach acid is important for immune system regulation because it is necessary for destroying poisonous parasites and bacteria that accompany food, therefore preserving gut health and preventing bloating, diarrhea, and other symptoms.
2. The pepsin enzyme, which is essential for protein digestion, is known to be activated by the acid. This acid is thought to tell the pancreas to produce digestive enzymes and fluids in order to further break down it.
3. The hydrochloric acid in the stomach aids digestion by dissolving big, complex food molecules into smaller, simpler ones. The pepsinogen enzyme, which is necessary for protein digestion, is activated by the acid.
4. The iron absorption process is hampered when there is no hydrochloric acid in the stomach, as iron is required in the solution for absorption.
5. When food is ingested, the stomach is stimulated to create acid in order to make the gastrin hormone.
6. As a result, the acid lowers the pH of the stomach, turning off gastrin synthesis, which would otherwise result in hypergastrinemia.