SMRTR Science & EngineeringJan 11, 2026Live Science

Why doesn't stomach acid burn through our stomachs?

SMRTR summary

The human stomach produces highly corrosive acid to break down food and kill harmful bacteria, yet doesn't burn itself because specialized cells create a thick, alkaline mucus barrier that continuously protects the stomach lining. When this protective layer becomes damaged by factors like overuse of pain medications, smoking, or bacterial infections, acid can penetrate and cause painful ulcers.

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