GASTRIC ACIDS Meaning and
Definition
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Gastric acids refer to the digestive fluids found in the stomach, primarily composed of hydrochloric acid (HCl), potassium chloride (KCl), and sodium chloride (NaCl). These acids play a crucial role in the process of digestion.
The main function of gastric acids is to break down food particles, promoting decomposition and facilitating the absorption of nutrients. The high acidity of gastric acid, with a pH range between 1.5 and 3.5, enables the activation of digestive enzymes and the breakdown of proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids.
The production and secretion of gastric acids are controlled by specialized cells called parietal cells, which are found in the stomach lining. These cells produce HCl and other components of gastric acid in response to various stimuli, including the presence of food, hormones, and nerve signals. Additionally, the release of gastric acids is regulated by a hormone called gastrin, which stimulates the production and release of HCl.
The role of gastric acids extends beyond digestion. They also function as an important defense mechanism, as their high acidity helps to kill harmful bacteria and pathogens that may be present in ingested food. The acidic environment created by gastric acids serves as a barrier against potential infections and diseases.
While gastric acids are essential for digestion and protection, an imbalance in their production or excess secretion can lead to various gastrointestinal disorders, such as acid reflux, peptic ulcers, and gastritis.
Common Misspellings for GASTRIC ACIDS
- fastric acids
- vastric acids
- bastric acids
- hastric acids
- yastric acids
- tastric acids
- gzstric acids
- gsstric acids
- gwstric acids
- gqstric acids
- gaatric acids
- gaztric acids
- gaxtric acids
- gadtric acids
- gaetric acids
- gawtric acids
- gasrric acids
- gasfric acids
- gasgric acids
- gasyric acids
Etymology of GASTRIC ACIDS
The word "gastric" originates from the Greek word "gaster" meaning "stomach". "Acids" originated from the Latin word "acidus" meaning "sour" or "acidic". So, the term "gastric acids" refers to the digestive fluids or secretions found in the stomach, primarily composed of hydrochloric acid, which helps in breaking down food.
