What is stomach acid similar to?

[kweenii]

I'm conducting an experiment to find out which antacids are the most effective. Before I start, I need to know what acids to use. Which acids are most similar to stomach acids?

[chazza]

Stomachs contain hydrochloric acid

[kweenii]

Do they contain any other acids?

[sqad617]

No.

[kweenii]

Ok thank you

[ll_billym]

Interestingly I have also researched this area quite extensively on Sunday mornings after drinking copius amounts of Strongbow and eating curry the night before.

My findings are that the best antacid is Ranitadine.

[chrisrob]

Strictly speaking Ranitidine isn't an antacid. It is a RH inhibitor inhibiting production of stomach acid. Even more powerful are Proton Pump Imhibitors such as omeprazole which can turn off the supply of acid to the stomach.
An antacid just neutralises the acid. eg. Calcium Carbonate producing calcium chloride (harmless salt) and carbon dioxide that'll come up as a belch.
St5omach acid is required to absorb minerals. Insufficient acid in the stomach creates a condition known as hypochlorhydria and, because iron, calcium, zinc, selenium etc, are insufficiently absorbed can lead to problems of anaemia, osteoporosis etc.