Definition
Gastric juice is a potent digestive fluid secreted by the stomach lining. It contains hydrochloric acid, enzymes like pepsin, and mucus. Hydrochloric acid helps to break down food and kill bacteria. Pepsin breaks down proteins. Mucus protects the stomach lining from the corrosive effects of the acid. Think of it as the stomach's own powerful cocktail for digestion. Without gastric juice, the stomach would struggle to digest food effectively.