Question

Why the acid in stomach does not digest the stomach itself?

Answer 1

The stomach wall is made up mostly of protein, left unprotected the acid would eat right through it. Fortunately for us, the stomach walls have a lining that contains epithelial cells that secrete a protective layer of mucus and bicarbonate.

The mucous is pretty much the same stuff that lines our throat and nose. It sticks to the walls of the stomach to provide a physical barrier so the acid doesn’t touch the stomach itself. When the cells come into contact with acid, they secrete bicarbonate. Bicarbonate is highly alkaline and very effective at neutralizing acid. This combination of mucous and bicarb is so good at doing its job.