How does the body avoid damaging the digestive enzymes in the small intestine with this strongly acidic pH as the food passes out of the stomach?

The body protects the digestive enzymes in the small intestine from the stomach's strongly acidic pH by secreting bicarbonate ions from the pancreas. This bicarbonate neutralizes the stomach acid as chyme enters the small intestine, creating a more alkaline environment suitable for the function of digestive enzymes. Additionally, the lining of the small intestine produces mucus that helps shield the epithelial cells from acidity and enzymes, further protecting them from damage.