Digestion is a crucial process in our bodies, where the stomach produces a special juice called Gastric Juice to break down the food we eat. Gastric juice is composed of digestive enzymes, hydrochloric acid, and other components necessary for nutritional absorption; around 3 to 4 liters of gastric juice are produced each day.
Gastric juice, especially its primary component hydrochloric acid, can contribute to acidity in the stomach. The stomach maintains an acidic environment to promote digestion and destroy dangerous germs found in meals. However, overproduction or imbalance of gastric juice, as well as problems with its management, may result in acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
However, acidity is actually a medical condition stemming from an overproduction of acid in our bodies, originating from glands in the stomach. This excessive acid can lead to various symptoms, including stomach ulcers, inflammation, heartburn, indigestion, and discomfort after eating.
There are several misconceptions about acidity, with some believing it’s solely caused by the food we consume. While the food we consume can certainly influence stomach acidity, it is not the sole cause. Several reasons may cause stomach acidity, such as: diet, stress, lifestyle factors and medical conditions.
Gastric Acid or Gastric Juice
Gastric acid, also known as gastric juice or stomach acid, is a digestive fluid generated by cells that line the stomach. With a pH range from 1 to 3, stomach acid is required for protein breakdown during digestion by activating enzymes that disassemble protein chains into amino acids.
The production of stomach acid is closely controlled, rising when necessary, such as after eating. Additionally, specific cells in the stomach produce bicarbonate to help neutralize the acidity of gastric acid, so preserving the stomach lining from injury. The mucus secreted by these cells serves as a protective barrier against the corrosive effects of stomach acid, according to NIH.
The major active component of gastric acid is hydrochloric acid (HCl), which is produced by parietal cells in the gastric glands. The secretion mechanism is complex and needs a lot of energy. Parietal cells secrete hydrochloric acid into the stomach cavity via a network of secretory channels called as canaliculi. The proton pump H+/K+ ATPase keeps the pH of stomach acid between 1.5 and 3.5, while bicarbonate is released into the circulation to balance the acidity, resulting in a brief elevation in blood pH known as an alkaline tide.
Problems from Gastric Juice
Gastric juice, also known as gastric acid, can lead to various problems. It’s not just acidity resulting from increased acid levels, but also issues stemming from low acid levels. Let’s explore some diseases caused by gastric juice.
- Hypochlorhydria and achlorhydria occur when there is a decrease or absence of gastric acid production in the stomach. In these conditions, there is an increased risk of infections affecting the digestive tract, such as infections caused by bacteria like Vibrio or Helicobacter.
- In conditions such as Zollinger–Ellison syndrome and hypercalcemia, elevated levels of gastrin result in an overproduction of gastric acid, potentially leading to the development of gastric ulcers.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid repeatedly returns to the esophagus. This backward movement, known as acid reflux, may irritate the esophageal lining.
- [The esophagus is a muscular tube that transports food and liquids from the throat to the stomach.]
- While occasional acid reflux is common, repeated occurrences over time might cause gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
- Many people may reduce the symptoms of GERD with lifestyle changes and medication. Although rare, surgery may be necessary for a few to alleviate symptoms.
Sleeping on the left side can reduce acidity?
Sleeping on your left side may help some people minimize their acid reflux or heartburn problems. This position can potentially minimize the risk of stomach acid flowing back up into the food pipe. When you lay on your left side, gravity may help to keep the stomach contents in place and prevent them from recirculating upward.
However, it is crucial to remember that this strategy may not be effective for everyone, and individual results may vary. It is always better to get specific guidance on how to manage acid reflux or heartburn problems.
