Gastric fluids are normally transparent in their natural form. HCl is a key component of gastric juice. It is a powerful acid generated by the corpus parietal cells, with a stomach pH of 2-3. An acidic pH in the stomach is required for pepsin activation and food absorption. However, if the pH becomes too low (less than 3), then hydrogen ions begin to bind to organic molecules, changing their structure and making them toxic. The stomach is designed to protect itself by neutralizing any HCl that is released into it. Pepsin is very sensitive to pH and requires an acid environment to break down protein into amino acids. Thus, the body keeps the acidity of the stomach high by producing more HCl. In people who suffer from gastroenteritis, the virus or bacteria that cause the illness can also be found in their stools. When this happens, some of the material from the stool will make its way into the stomach via the oral cavity. Hydrochloric acid is secreted by the pancreas in order to neutralize any digestive enzymes present in the stool. If enough acid is produced, then it will completely destroy any viruses or bacteria that may be present in the stool. Stomach cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the world. There are several factors in place that increase your chances of developing this disease including age, alcohol consumption, tobacco use, eating a poor diet, and living with H.