HUMAN NUTRITION

Detailed explanation-1: -In the stomach several mucosal defence mechanisms protect the stomach against hydrochloric acid and noxious agents. The pre-epithelial protection is made up by the mucus-bicarbonate barrier. Mucus and bicarbonate, secreted by mucus cells, create a pH gradient maintaining the epithelial cell surface at near neutral pH.

Detailed explanation-2: -The mucus layer is the first line of defense against infiltration of microorganisms, digestive enzymes and acids, digested food particles, microbial by-products, and food-associated toxins.

Detailed explanation-3: -Your stomach protects itself from being digested by its own enzymes, or burnt by the corrosive hydrochloric acid, by secreting sticky, neutralising mucus that clings to the stomach walls. If this layer becomes damaged in any way it can result in painful and unpleasant stomach ulcers.

Detailed explanation-4: -The mucous membrane lubricates and protects these organs and cavities from abrasive particles and bodily fluids, as well as invasive pathogens. You have more than 200 times more mucosa than skin, making it your body’s largest protective barrier.

Detailed explanation-5: -The gastric mucosa is the mucous membrane layer of the stomach, which contains the glands and the gastric pits. In humans, it is about 1 mm thick, and its surface is smooth, soft, and velvety. It consists of simple columnar epithelium, lamina propria, and the muscularis mucosae.