Under certain abnormal conditions, the stomach does not secrete hydrochloric acid. Identify three functions that hydrochloric acid has in the digestive process and describe how the failure to secrete hydrochloric acid will affect these processes.
2006-08-02 11:30:19 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Education & Reference ➔ Homework Help
Do your own homework.
2006-08-02 12:37:00 · answer #1 · answered by jemhasb 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Hydrochloric acid helps in the breakdown of food in the chyme of the stomach, helping to break down larger molecules into smaller molecules such that absorption is enhanced.
In addition, it helps in the activation of a gastric enzyme called pepsin, which digests food particles as well.
Lastly, it has bactericidal properties due to its highly acidic nature of pH of 2.
With a failure to secrete HCL, the patient goes into malabsorption and malnutrition, leading to general loss of weight and associated symptoms. In addition, he has a higher tendency to get infections.
Hope this helps. :D
2006-08-06 07:42:41 · answer #2 · answered by boingo 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
break down of food
2006-08-02 18:39:44 · answer #3 · answered by puma 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋