GAST
Gastric Acid: The Corrosive Powerhouse in Your Stomach
Description
Gastric acid, a clear, colorless liquid produced by glands in the stomach lining, plays a crucial role in digestion. It contains hydrochloric acid (HCl) and the enzyme pepsin, which work together to:
- Kill harmful bacteria ingested with food
- Break down proteins into smaller peptides
- Activate enzymes essential for digestion
- Stimulate the production of hormones that regulate appetite and maintain glucose levels
Associated Diseases
Gastric acid is tightly regulated by the body to ensure it doesn't damage the stomach itself. However, when this delicate balance is disrupted, it can lead to various digestive conditions, including:
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: Erosion of the stomach or duodenal lining due to excessive acid production
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation
- Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining
- Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: A rare condition characterized by excessive gastric acid secretion from tumors in the pancreas or duodenum
Did you Know ?
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, approximately 25 million Americans suffer from peptic ulcer disease each year.
