The American College of Gastroenterology estimates that about 60 million Americans experience occasional heartburn, the predominant symptom of acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when your lower esophageal muscle relaxes and allows the contents of your stomach to travel back up into your esophagus.

Acid reflux is a condition that occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus and causes a burning sensation called heartburn. Normally, a muscular valve called the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, keeps stomach acid in the stomach.

Progesterone is an important hormone in the female body, produced by the ovaries and the adrenal glands -- and in pregnant women, by the placenta. This hormone plays several significant roles, including preparing the body for and maintaining a pregnancy.

Despite the name, heartburn actually has nothing to do with the heart but instead is the result of acidic stomach contents escaping into the esophagus and causing a burning sensation, typically behind the breastbone and sometimes extending upward into the throat. This regurgitation is called acid reflux.

There are a variety of medicines for acid reflux, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Some can deal with heartburn problems immediately. They include antacid tablets and liquids that can be taken when acid reflux first strikes.

For most people, the term "acid reflux" goes hand in hand with heartburn. That’s because the burn of the acid is likely to be felt in the lower portion of the esophagus, in the region of the heart. But acid reflux can also cause heart palpitations and other disturbances, such as chest pain.

A hiatal hernia can make mealtimes miserable. Hiatal hernia occurs when a small part of your stomach slides up into your chest through a weak spot, or hiatus, in your diaphragm.

Yogurt contains live beneficial bacteria called probiotics that help digestion and boost the immune system. In addition, calcium strengthens the muscle in your lower esophagus, helping to prevent acid reflux. Dannon Activia yogurt contains probiotics and is a good source of calcium.

Erosive esophagitis results from reflux of stomach acid up into the esophagus. The lining of the esophagus becomes inflamed and irritated. You may feel abdominal pain and burning that extends up into the mid-chest area. Following a bland diet can help minimize symptoms.

Chronic acid reflux is likely to inspire any number of lifestyle changes, and choice of beverages may be one of them. Many “go-to” drinks like coffee and sodas are likely to aggravate heartburn and other symptoms of acid reflux, which in its chronic form is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.

Acid reflux is a backflow of stomach acid into your esophagus, which runs from your throat to your stomach. It occurs when your lower esophageal sphincter, or LES muscle, irregularly relaxes or weakens.

Freezing oranges and lemons keeps them fresh, preserves convenient portions of citrus for drinks and recipes -- and ultimately saves money. Citrus fruits contain significant levels of vitamin C, folate and antioxidants that protect your cells from damage.