Have you ever wondered about the intricate process behind stomach acid production? This vital mechanism is crucial for the effective breakdown of food and the absorption of essential nutrients. Specialized cells in the stomach, known as parietal cells, work tirelessly to produce hydrochloric acid (HCl). Main cells produce pepsin, an enzyme that breaks down protein. The supplementary cells produce mucus, which protects the walls of the stomach from hydrochloric acid. HCl acid creates a highly aci