The main functions of the stomach and in the process of digestion are as follows
- Storage of ingested food and release of the food pulp in small portions to the duodenum.
- Initiation of protein digestion under the influence of the protein-degrading enzyme pepsin as well as hydrochloric acid.
- Production of intrinsic factor as a prerequisite for the absorption of vitamin B12.
The stomach can perform its essential functions only if the activity of the gastric wall muscles – motility and the secretion of the gastric mucosa – according to the filling state as well as the composition of the food pulp – are ensured.If the motility of the stomach and the secretion of the gastric mucosa are impaired by certain factors, as a result, the functions of the stomach are severely limited.
Causes of a lowered activity and functionality of the stomach
- Diseases, such as chronic gastritis
- Gastric surgery – severing of the vagus nerve at the esophagus on the stomach, partial or total stomach removal.
Both chronic gastritis and gastric resection result in atrophic changes in the gastric mucosa with loss or reduction of secretory function. Resorption disorders result from such impairments, significantly reducing the utilization of macro- and micronutrients (nutrients, vital substances).
