Alkaline Foods & Heartburn
July 2, 2009
Heartburn (also known as acid reflux) occurs when the acidic contents of the stomach are able to escape up the esophagus. Because the esophagus was not designed to handle acidic contents, it can become irritated and damaged, leading to a burning sensation in the chest that is commonly called heartburn. Acid reflux is normally prevented by a small ring of smooth muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter. This muscle is located at the juncture of the esophagus and the stomach and acts as a valve that prevents the reflux of stomach contents. However, in some conditions this valve can become weakened and acid reflux can result.
Credit: Livestrong.com Website
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