What are the primary functions of the stomach?

The primary functions of the stomach include the mechanical and chemical digestion of food, particularly the breakdown of proteins. The stomach secretes gastric juices that contain hydrochloric acid and the enzyme pepsin, which work together to denature proteins and begin their digestion into smaller peptides. This enzymatic activity is crucial, as proteins are complex molecules that require substantial breakdown before they can be absorbed in the intestines.

While some of the other functions listed, such as absorption of nutrients and emulsification of fats, do occur in the digestive process, these primarily take place in the small intestine and not in the stomach. Additionally, bile, which is responsible for emulsifying fats, is produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, being released into the small intestine rather than mixed with food in the stomach. Hence, the focus of the stomach’s function on the breakdown of proteins is why this answer is accurate.