Question

How come a person lying upside down can still eat or drink?

A. Gravity facilitates swallowing in any position.
B. Digestive muscles adapt to body orientation.
C. The esophagus has a flexible structure.
D. It's a misconception; it's not possible.

Answer 1

A person can eat and drink in any position, including upside down, because of peristalsis, which pushes food through the esophagus with muscular contractions.

Step-by-step explanation:

A person is capable of eating and drinking in any position, including when lying upside down, due to a process called peristalsis. Peristalsis is the involuntary wave-like muscle contractions of the esophagus that propel food down from the mouth to the stomach, regardless of gravitational pull. Hence, gravity is not the primary factor in food movement through the esophagus. While eating upside down, it's essential to be cautious to avoid choking because although peristalsis aids in swallowing, the risk of food entering the windpipe is higher in this position.