- 07 Apr 2009
Gastric acid is a peculiar wonder fluid, consisting of 0.5 per cent hydrochloric acid, which in some inexplicable way does not damage the mucous membranes or cells. The hydrochloric acid is produced from the chlorine or the saline solution circulating in the bloodstream. The healthy stomach lining is saved from digesting itself by anti-enzymes which to this day have not been fully identified. If, however, the mucous lining has suffered some damage or a chronic inflammation gains a hold, the protection given by the anti-enzymes is no longer fully effective and the gastric juice begins to eat away the mucous lining, with the result that gastric ulcers develop. When the strong acid reaches the ulcerous parts the so-called ‘hunger pains’ set in.
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