Question

What causes the problem of acidity? What is its effect on the body?

Answer 1

Stomach contains special cells called oxyntic or parietal cells, which secrete hydrochloric acid in the stomach. It plays two important roles like:

1. It initiates protein digestion by activating the conversion of pepsinogen to pepsin.
2. It provides an acidic medium for the activity of pepsin and other enzymes present in gastric juice.

However, if the level of this HCl exceeds its normal levels, it results in acidity/acid reflux. Higher levels of HCl can result in the following effects on the body:

1. burning sensation in the stomach
2. burning sensation in the throat and heart
3. difficulty in swallowing
4. regurgitation
5. restlessness
6. belching
7. nausea
8. prolonged sour taste in the mouth
9. indigestion

Exposure to higher levels of HCl for longer durations can also result in the development of peptic ulcers in the stomach.