How Does Stomach Acid Work?

4 Jul 2017, 16:17 | Updated: 10 Feb 2026

How does the acid in your stomach help break down the nutrients in food?

Mystery Hour Question

How do any of the good parts of my food get through if my stomach is full of hydrochloric acid?

John, Fitzrovia

Answer

Name: James

Qualification: Biology was favourite subject.

Answer: The acid breaks down the food in the stomach so all the nutrients can be absorbed when in the small intestine. Stomach acid is much weaker than the hydrochloric acid you use in everyday life.

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