How strong is human stomach acid?

[cjackson]

This may seem weird, but after a day of acid reflux here goes:

Let's say you could shrink yourself down, and get swallowed alive by a healthy woman -- would her stomach be able to dissolve you bones and all? Or would you suffocate before feeling any considerable burning? Would you even feel any burn at all?

Basically, how would your epidermis react in the environment of the stomach and its juices? Not your esophagus feeling reflux, or your skin coming into contact with diluted vomit, but the internal environment of the stomach.

Just how strong is our stomach acid?

And why a hypothetical woman? Well who wants to discuss a dudes insides?

 

[jbsteele]

The answer is yes, your bones and all would be dissolved, but it would take time. The powerful hydrochloric acid in the stomach is able to break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, and although bones are made of calcium phosphate, which is more resistant to the acid, it still can be broken down over time. The pH of the stomach is usually around 1-2, which is strong enough to break down most substances. The burning sensation you would feel would depend on how long you were in the stomach and the concentration of the acid. If the concentration is too high, you may feel a burning sensation, but if it is too low, you may not feel any discomfort. It is also likely that you would eventually suffocate due to lack of oxygen, as well as being digested by the acid. The epidermis of your skin would react differently depending on the length of time it was exposed to the stomach acid. Initially, it would feel like a stinging sensation, especially if the acid concentration is high. Over time, the skin would become irritated and inflamed due to the acid, eventually leading to chemical burns. So, while it is possible to get swallowed alive by a healthy woman, it is not recommended due to the potential risks involved.