The Stomach: The Body’s Powerful Mixer

Your stomach is a muscular organ designed to churn, store, and liquefy food.
It mixes food with acid and enzymes to create a nutrient-rich liquid called chyme.
The stomach’s walls contract about three times per minute to mix contents evenly.
Its acid (hydrochloric acid) is strong enough to dissolve metal — but your lining protects you.
Mucus coating prevents the stomach from digesting itself.
The stomach can expand to hold over a liter of food and liquid.
Specialized cells release enzymes that begin protein digestion.
Food typically stays here for two to four hours before moving to the intestines.
The stomach also regulates how fast nutrients enter the bloodstream.
It’s your body’s natural blender and chemical lab rolled into one.