High protein diet and GERD

[jaysaki]

I have been diagnosed with GERD and Gastritis and have been taking Nexium and Zantac regularly.  I have had an endoscopy in the last 2 years or so and only thing that was noted was some inflammation.   I recently (3 weeks ago) started a new diet plan called Transitions that is based on the low glycemic index and high protein.   The basis is to eat protein with every meal so your blood sugar stabilizes throughout the day and you no longer crave sweets etc.   Since I began this plan, my reflux symptoms have been non stop, through the roof and no amount of medicine seems to be able to control it.   Before this, my reflux was under control by taking one Nexium a day.  I have been eating protein with every meal and mostly fruits, vegetables, chicken, shrimp, tuna, and egg whites.  Is it possible this protein could be exacerbating my symptoms to an extreme?  I have an appointment with my specialist in a few weeks to discuss but I thought in the mean time while I am suffering, I would try to gather some information.  I am currently taking 2 Nexiums and 2 Zantacs a day to calm my symptoms.  Thanks for your input.

[Ratnakar Kini]

Hi,
Protein increases the acid secretion in the stomach. So the symptoms of acid reflux may get worsened if the diet is rich in proteins.

[tomtom468]

A related discussion, Gerd and High protein diet was started.

[jaysaki]

I have since seen my specialist and my endoscopy showed all normal results, normal mucus and no significant redness or irritation, in fact my doctor stated that if I didn't tell him I had reflux, he would not know from my edoscopy.  I also have recently been diagnosed with anemia, hemoglobin was at an 8.  I have also had some issues with how my digestive system reacts to some dairy products.  I sometimes think there is a piece to the puzzle missing since I have been eating a fairly iron rich diet so I question possible celiac or some type of malabsorption issue.  At times, my esphagus goes into such intense spasm that the pain is unbearable yet endoscopy was unremarkable.