Does it mean goodbye to coffee?

I am suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a more serious form of gastroesophageal reflux (GER), which is common. GER occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) opens spontaneously, for varying periods of time, or does not close properly and stomach contents rise up into the esophagus. GER is also called acid reflux or acid regurgitation, because digestive juices—called acids—rise up with the food. The esophagus is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. The LES is a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus that acts like a valve between the esophagus and stomach.

When acid reflux occurs, food or fluid can be tasted in the back of the mouth. When refluxed stomach acid touches the lining of the esophagus it may cause a burning sensation in the chest or throat called heartburn or acid indigestion. Occasional GER is common and does not necessarily mean one has GERD. Persistent reflux that occurs more than twice a week is considered GERD, and it can eventually lead to more serious health problems. People of all ages can have GERD.

“Persistent reflux that occurs more than twice a week is considered GERD.” I took not of that, I know mine is serious because it occurs almost every after meal. It is also induced when I am brushing my tongue. It has been long since it started, I was just afraid to consult a doctor but this time it is chronic so I had no choice.

I am currently under medication and my doctor advised me to avoid the following foods:

• citrus fruits
• chocolate
• coffee, tea and alcohol
• fatty and fried foods
• garlic and onions
• mint flavorings
• spicy foods
• tomato based-foods

Well, no more coffee and tea (haven’t taken since Friday). That’s the reason I am always sleepy (might be a withdrawal syndrome). My can’t go a day without coffee or tea. If I miss drinking at home I make sure that I got a cup in the office. But now, I can’t even have a sip.

No more chocolates, no more oranges or even citrus fruits, no more spicy foods (I love spicy!), no more spaghetti, no more ketchup… no more. What can I eat, lahat na lang bawal!

I want this to end immediately! It seems that my life isn’t normal anymore. One more thing, the medicines are very expensive.