Why does the pancreas release bicarbonate into the duodenum?

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USDA MyPlate dietary guidelines — human nutrition MyPlate, a revised set of dietary guidelines introduced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in 2011, divides the four basic food groups (fruits, grains, protein, and vegetables) into sections on a plate, the size of each section representing the relative dietary proportions of each food group. The small blue circle shown at the upper right illustrates the inclusion and recommended proportion of dairy products in the diet.

The pancreas releases bicarbonate into the duodenum primarily to neutralize the hydrochloric acid that enters the small intestine from the stomach.21

This process is essential for protecting the intestinal lining, which can be damaged by highly acidic gastric secretions. When acidic chyme enters the duodenum, it triggers the release of the hormone secretin into the bloodstream. Secretin then stimulates the duct cells of the pancreas to secrete water and bicarbonate. By neutralizing the acid, this mechanism creates an optimal environment for digestion and prevents the mucosal damage that can lead to conditions such as peptic ulcers.21