Brains On! Science podcast for kids Why doesn’t stomach acid burn right through us?
Feb 10, 2026
They explore why powerful stomach acid does not burn a hole through us. Listeners hear about the stomach’s protective mucus, bicarbonate, and rapid lining renewal. The show dives into wild animal digestion strategies and how early medical research revealed stomach secrets. A mystery sound and listener mail add playful segments.
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How Stomachs Stay Safe From Their Own Acid
- Stomach acid (hydrochloric acid) is extremely strong and can burn skin or dissolve metal outside the body.
- The stomach protects itself with a thick mucus layer, bicarbonate to neutralize acid, and rapid cell turnover of the lining.
Bicarbonate And Fast Regrowth Protect The Lining
- Bicarbonate in stomach mucus acts like baking soda and neutralizes some of the acid at the stomach lining.
- The stomach also sheds and regrows its lining cells quickly, replacing the entire lining every couple days.
Cows Rechew Food To Extract Nutrients
- Cows have one stomach made of four compartments and regurgitate food (chew cud) to chew it more thoroughly.
- This rumination helps extract nutrients from tough, fibrous plant material.