The stomach is part of the digestive system and is responsible for breaking down food into smaller particles that can be absorbed by the body. This process begins in the mouth and continues in the stomach, where gastric juices break down proteins and other macronutrients. The stomach is regulated by a complex interplay of hormones and neural signals which modulate its activity based on the contents of the food being digested. Various medical conditions can affect the functioning of the stomach, leading to a range of symptoms such as acid reflux, ulcers, and gastroparesis.