We are constantly fascinated by the intricate design and remarkable capabilities of the human digestive system. One such astonishing fact is that a new stomach lining forms every 3-4 days. Does it actually happen that simply? This led us to know more about this vital organ in its entirety. As part of our Know Your Body series, we talk to experts on this pertinent aspect. The stomach lining, also known as epithelium, is composed of various types of cells, including mucus cells, parietal cells, and chief cells, among others. “These cells work together to produce the necessary enzymes, mucus, and hydrochloric acid that aid in the digestion of food. These epithelial cells have short lifespans and are constantly shed only to be replaced by new cells. While the exact renewal rate may vary among individuals, the average turnover time for the stomach lining is estimated to be about 3 to 6 days,” Dr Parag Dashatwar, consultant gastroenterologist and hepatologist, Kamineni Hospitals, Hyderabad told indianexpress.com. Why does the stomach lining get breached? Dr Dashatwar elucidated that the process of gastric epithelial regeneration is tightly controlled by the interplay of various factors such as stem cells, growth factors, and the gastric microenvironment. “Disruptions in this process can result in various diseases such as peptic ulcer, gastritis, polyps, and cancer. These disruptions are often a result of injury caused by smoking, alcohol, medications (especially painkillers) and various types of infections such as Helicobacter pylori,” said Dr Dashatwar. Dr Dheeraj Karanth, consultant-medical gastroenterology, Manipal Hospital, Millers Road and Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, concurred and said that the lining may get affected by acidity or infections depending on the immunity of the patient and the amount of acid formed in the stomach. “For the mucosal layer or the lining of the stomach to maintain its integrity without being breached and remain intact without damage, various factors must be taken into consideration,” said Dr Karanth. Sometimes taking painkillers for different reasons can breach and cause injury to the intestinal lining, mentioned Dr Karanth. “Even though the stomach lining gets regenerated, one should avoid injuries to this layer in the form of avoiding infections that come through food and water contamination. There are many drugs that can help cure infection and decrease acidity. Also, taking away painkillers from people who do not need them would help to prevent such breach of lining and damage to the mucosa or the lining of the intestine,” said Dr Karanth. Dr Dashatwar, however, noted that not all cells in the stomach epithelium have the same renewal rate. The cells in the upper part of the stomach called the fundus have a slower turnover rate compared to the cells in the lower part, known as the antrum. The antral cells, responsible for producing mucus, tend to have a faster turnover rate, said Dr Dashatwar. Dr Manoj Vithlani, senior consultant physician and diabetologist, HCG Hospitals, Ahmedabad agreed and said that the human stomach lining does not renew itself every three to four days but “the stomach lining does undergo a continuous process of repair and regeneration to maintain its function and integrity”. “However, the complete turnover of the entire stomach lining does not occur in a matter of days. The exact duration for the renewal of the entire stomach lining is not precisely known but is estimated to take several weeks or even months. The rate of cell turnover can vary among individuals and may be influenced by factors such as age, overall health, and any underlying stomach conditions,” said Dr Vithlani. 📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don't miss out on the latest updates!
