There are a series of protective mechanisms to stop the acid from damaging the stomach.
* Acid is only produced when needed. On an empty stomach, the fluid is mostly water and some salt. Acid secretion only starts when thinking about, seeing, smelling (cephalic phase of digestion) or actually eating food.
* Mucus and bicarbonate barrier. Cells in the stomach produce mucus and bicarbonate, which becomes more concentrated towards the actual cell. The mucus acts as a physical barrier, stopping acid from reaching the cells, while bicarbonate reacts with and neutralizes the acid and acts as a chemical barrier.
* Prostaglandins – When cells are irritated through the action of acid, bicarbonate secretion is stimulated. More bicarbonate means more protection for cells.
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