I need to find a way to control my GERD. I have found that my body is not able to digest any type of red meat. I've tried taking Pepcid before eating, but the reflux still occurs. I am miserable and am wondering if I must give up meat altogether to enjoy a comfortable life. Any suggestions would be great.

Fran

It is very unusual for a person to have GERD caused by only red meat. It is well known that GERD symptoms can be exacerbated by large meals and specific foods, such as fatty foods, chocolate, peppermint and citrus products. Red meats contain a fair amount of fat and are a common culprit, but not the only one.

In most cases, GERD symptoms can be controlled by both dietary and lifestyle changes and appropriate use of medications like H2 antagonists (Zantac, Pepcid, Tagamet, Axid), or proton-pump inhibitors (Prilosec or Prevacid). It is possible you have something other than GERD -- perhaps dyspepsia -- and the problem resides in an inability to empty your stomach. Do you have bloating, or a feeling of filling up quickly? Your inability to handle fatty foods may also be a reflection of gallbladder or pancreas problems. To be sure, please see your doctor.