The Stomach

The stomach is a muscular organ located in the upper left part of the abdomen. Its main function is to break down and digest food in order to extract nutrients and energy for the body.

Anatomy of the Stomach

The stomach is divided into four main parts: the cardia, fundus, body, and pylorus. It is lined with mucous membrane and contains layers of smooth muscle that help mix and churn food.

Functions of the Stomach

The stomach performs several important functions in the digestive process, including:

• Storage: The stomach acts as a temporary storage reservoir for food before it is gradually released into the small intestine.
• Digestion: The stomach secretes gastric juices containing acids and enzymes that help break down food into a semi-fluid mixture called chyme.
• Protection: The acidic environment of the stomach helps to kill bacteria and other pathogens present in the food, thus protecting the body from infections.

Common Stomach Disorders

Some common disorders that can affect the stomach include:

• Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, often caused by excessive alcohol consumption, stress, or certain medications.
• Peptic Ulcers: Open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, often due to infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria or prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): A chronic condition characterized by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, leading to heartburn and other symptoms.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember about the stomach:

1. What are the four main parts of the stomach?
2. What are the functions of the stomach?
3. How does the stomach protect the body from infections?
4. What are some common disorders that can affect the stomach?

Understanding the structure and functions of the stomach is important for comprehending the digestive process and maintaining overall digestive health.