Hydrochloric acid is also known as hydrogen chloride and has a wide range of uses. It is used in photography, textile and rubber industries and also in the manufacture of chlorides, fertilizers and dyes. It is important to note that it can cause health problems among those who work with the chemical. Individuals can be exposed to the bad effects by inhalation or allowing it to come in contact with the skin.
Hydrochloric acid is destructive to the eyes, skin and mucous membranes. An acute inhalation of the acid causes eye, nose, and respiratory tract irritation and inflammation as well as cause pulmonary edema. An oral contact to the chemical can lead to the corrosion of the mucous membranes as well as the esophagus and the stomach. If it came into contact with the skin, it can cause ulcerations, burns and can lead to scar formation. Appropriate first aid care is essential to prevent lasting damage.
Long-term exposure to the chemical can lead to chronic bronchitis, gastritis, photosensitization and dermatitis. In some cases, prolonged exposure can also cause dental discoloration and erosion.
Photosensitization occurs when areas of the skin especially areas exposed to light without protective hair, wool or pigmentation becomes more susceptible to the ultraviolet light due to the photodynamic agents.
Foods high in hydrochloric acid content
Hydrochloric acid is one of the components of the naturally produced gastric acid in the stomach that is used in helping break down food consumed by stimulating the release of the digestive enzymes. If the membrane of the stomach breaks down, the production of hydrochloric and gastric acids will burn the lining of the stomach, thus developing into ulcers.
Fruits and vegetables
- Acidic fruits – pineapples, pears, raspberries, melons, cranberries and blueberries
- Vegetables that are acidic – sweet corn, asparagus, carrots and peppers
Proteins
- Acidic proteins – beef, pork, peanuts, nuts, beans, fish, shellfish and veal
- Acidic drinks – soda, beer and coffee
Pickled foods – the addition of vinegar to these already-acidic foods can provide added flavor and helps prolong the shelf life
- Pickles
- Olives
- Wines
- Tomatoes
Starches – yeast is added for the fermentation process that can cause acid in in the body to increase
- Barley
- White and wheat flour
- Bran
- Noodles
- Corn starch
- Oats
- Rice
- Wheat
How to prevent acidity
Acid reflux or heartburn can be caused by acidity that can lead to ulcers if not treated. The pain starts in the stomach and moves towards the neck and to the esophagus. A few simple diet and lifestyle changes to reduce the acidity in the stomach can help reduce the painful effects of acid reflux.
- Avoiding foods that cause acidity such as spicy and fried foods, beef, processed sweets and dairy products. Avoid eating grapefruits as well as drinking lemonade, coffee, alcoholic beverages, caffeinated tea and soda.
- Eat smaller portions during mealtimes to allow the stomach enough time to digest the food and reduce the symptoms of acid reflux.
- Stop smoking – this habit increases acid secretion and reduce the production of saliva which help with acid neutralization.
- Avoiding taking a nap after eating and eating right before going to bed.