Lower Esophageal Sphincter

Uses

How it works

Benefits

Risks & contraindications

Highlighted claims

• The lower esophageal valve prevents stomach acid from reaching the esophagus, and its failure to close completely causes reflux. — Burning Throat Syndrome and Silent Acid Reflux (LPR)
• Three distinct mechanisms govern whether the lower esophageal valve closes correctly. — Burning Throat Syndrome and Silent Acid Reflux (LPR)
• The autonomic nervous system directly controls the lower esophageal valve, and nerve dysfunction causes the valve to lose tone. — Burning Throat Syndrome and Silent Acid Reflux (LPR)
• The valve closes in response to sufficient gastric acidity; when stomach acid is too weak, the valve fails to close and allows acid to escape upward. — Burning Throat Syndrome and Silent Acid Reflux (LPR)
• When stomach acid is at the correct pH, the lower esophageal sphincter maintains proper tone and stays tightly closed. — The Real Causes of Acid Reflux, Heartburn & GERD
• Alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, and chocolate all relax the esophageal sphincter, increasing the likelihood of reflux. — Preventing Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
• Sphincter-relaxing foods and beverages are especially risky at bedtime when gravity cannot assist in preventing reflux. — Preventing Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
• Apple cider vinegar and betaine hydrochloride lower gastric pH and restore the valve-closing signal. — Burning Throat Syndrome and Silent Acid Reflux (LPR)
• Restoring stomach acid to the correct pH allows the esophageal sphincter to regain proper tone and prevent reflux. — The Real Causes of Acid Reflux, Heartburn & GERD
• The esophageal sphincter is controlled by the autonomic nervous system. — The Real Causes of Acid Reflux, Heartburn & GERD