Alginate is a polysaccharide obtained from marine algae. When it comes into contact with gastric acid, it forms a viscous gel within a few minutes that has an almost neutral pH. The change in pH leads to the formation ofCO2 via an added hydrogen carbonate. This embeds itself in the alginate gel and creates buoyancy, which ensures that the gel floats on the stomach contents. It thus forms a physical barrier that prevents reflux episodes.
