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How is the acidity in our stomach formed? Is it related to hydrochloric acid ?
Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is an important gastric secretion that enables the body to break down proteins, activate important enzymes and hormones, and protect against bacterial overgrowth in the gut.Digestion is a complex body function that starts when food enters the mouth and continues as material is processed and passed on to the stomach, small intestine and large intestine. In the stomach, digestion begins with the release of a number of gastric secretions, including HCl, pepsinogen and a protective mucus coating. Secretion of hydrochloric acid and pepsin is a prerequisite for healthy digestion. Normally the stomach contains enough free hydrochloric acid (HCl) to maintain a constant stomach acidity of between pH 1 and 2. The amount of HCl produced increases rapidly following the ingestion of food. HCl has an important role in the digestion and absorption of a number of nutrients.In addition to breaking down and absorbing vital nutrients, HCl also plays an important role in maintaining a sterile environment in the stomach. HCl does this by protecting against orally ingested pathogens and acting as a barrier to prevent bacterial or fungal overgrowth of the small intestine.Heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest caused by the regurgitation of bile through the stomach into the lower esophagus, is a frequent symptom of low gastric acid. The traditional approach of treating heartburn is to suppress gastric acid by taking antacids or alkalizers.


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