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Multiple Choice
Can milk curdle in your stomach, and if so, what is the primary cause of this process?
A
Yes, because enzymes in saliva cause curdling in the stomach.
B
No, because the stomach neutralizes all acids.
C
No, because milk is resistant to any chemical changes in the stomach.
D
Yes, due to the acidic environment created by gastric juices.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the question. The problem is asking whether milk can curdle in the stomach and what causes this process. The options provided include enzymes in saliva, stomach acids, and milk's resistance to chemical changes.
Step 2: Recall the role of the stomach in digestion. The stomach contains gastric juices, which include hydrochloric acid (HCl) and enzymes like pepsin. These components create a highly acidic environment (pH around 1.5-3.5).
Step 3: Explain the curdling process. Milk contains proteins, primarily casein. In the acidic environment of the stomach, casein proteins denature and aggregate, forming curds. This is a natural part of digestion and helps the body break down milk proteins more effectively.
Step 4: Address the incorrect options. Enzymes in saliva (like amylase) do not cause curdling; their role is limited to carbohydrate digestion in the mouth. The stomach does not neutralize acids; instead, it maintains an acidic environment. Milk is not resistant to chemical changes; it undergoes digestion like other foods.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'Yes, due to the acidic environment created by gastric juices,' as the stomach's acidity is the primary cause of milk curdling during digestion.