A Unified Approach to GERD: Where Functional and Conventional Medicine Meet

Revolutionizing GERD Treatment: A New Era in Gut Health

NATIONWIDE - DECEMBER 2025 - (USAnews.com) For the millions of people affected by GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), the typical treatment options have long been limited to temporary fixes, acid-blockers, over-the-counter remedies, and, in extreme cases, surgery. But for Dr. Keith Thomae, a board-certified surgeon with more than three decades of clinical experience, there had to be a better way. Enter GERDHealthMD, a groundbreaking telemedicine platform dedicated to helping patients reverse chronic reflux without the need for lifelong medications or drastic surgical interventions.

Dr. Thomae’s journey into the world of functional medicine is both personal and professional. His vast experience as a surgeon, coupled with a growing concern over the limitations of conventional treatments for GERD, led him to explore an integrative approach to healing. Today, his platform combines traditional medical expertise with the principles of functional medicine, offering a more holistic, science-driven solution to an ailment that affects an estimated 20% of adults in the United States.

A New Approach to an Old Problem

GERDHealthMD’s mission is simple: to provide a new, evidence-based model for treating GERD that doesn’t rely on the band-aid solutions of the past. “While GERD is widespread, its true impact is often underestimated,” explains Dr. Thomae. “The typical treatments, acid-blockers and other over-the-counter remedies, only address symptoms. They fail to identify the root causes and can lead to severe side effects like kidney damage, heart muscle issues, and nerve damage. My goal is to empower people with a better, non-surgical solution.”

Through GERDHealthMD, patients receive personalized care that emphasizes the importance of balancing the gut-brain axis, restoring digestive motility, and addressing the deeper imbalances that fuel reflux. Dr. Thomae utilizes advanced diagnostic tools, including microbiome and metabolic testing, to create individualized treatment plans that target the underlying causes of GERD.

The Power of Combining Two Worlds

What sets GERDHealthMD apart is Dr. Thomae’s ability to bridge the gap between conventional and functional medicine. Unlike many who favor one approach over the other, Dr. Thomae integrates both, offering a comprehensive treatment plan that includes root-cause diagnostics, nutritional therapy, microbiome health, and stress regulation.

“I’ve seen firsthand the benefits of combining conventional medical expertise with functional medicine,” says Dr. Thomae. “This approach allows me to offer my patients a more well-rounded solution to their digestive issues, helping them heal from the inside out.”

By using this integrative protocol, GERDHealthMD doesn’t just mask symptoms but aims to truly heal the body’s systems. Dr. Thomae emphasizes that GERD is not just about heartburn, it’s about restoring gut health, rebalancing the microbiome, and addressing lifestyle factors that contribute to the condition. His approach is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on long-term wellness rather than short-term relief.

Standing Out in a Crowded Market

With millions of Americans suffering from GERD, there is no shortage of treatments available. However, Dr. Thomae believes most options are insufficient. Traditional medications may offer quick relief, but they rarely address the root causes of reflux. And while surgery can be effective, it’s often an extreme and costly last resort.

What makes GERDHealthMD unique is its emphasis on non-invasive, sustainable treatments. Dr. Thomae’s combination of conventional medicine and functional approaches gives patients the best of both worlds. His platform attracts not only those looking for alternative treatments but also health professionals seeking evidence-based solutions for their patients.

The Impact of GERDHealthMD

Dr. Thomae’s commitment to his patients is evident in the success stories of those who have used GERDHealthMD to manage or even reverse their reflux symptoms. The platform’s growing popularity highlights the increasing demand for a more comprehensive, patient-centered approach to digestive health.

Moreover, GERDHealthMD offers affordable care, with consultations priced at just $47, less than the average co-pay for a visit to a general surgeon. This makes quality care accessible to more people, offering an affordable path to relief without the financial burden that often comes with traditional treatments.

An Invitation to Heal and Thrive

As more people turn to GERDHealthMD, the platform continues to expand its offerings, including free workshops and informative articles aimed at educating the public about GERD and gut health. This aligns with Dr. Thomae’s broader mission of empowering people to take control of their health and well-being.

“I believe in providing affordable, science-backed solutions that can make a real difference in people’s lives,” says Dr. Thomae. “My ultimate goal is to help patients heal, regain their quality of life, and live without the fear of GERD controlling their daily existence.”

Dr. Thomae’s dedication to providing a truly integrative solution is evident in his continued work and in his upcoming book proposal, "Integrative Protocol for GERD: Marrying Conventional, Functional and Lifestyle Medicine," which is currently under consideration for publication by Mayo Clinic Press.

Are You Ready to Reclaim Your Gut Health?

For those struggling with chronic reflux or digestive issues, GERDHealthMD offers a fresh perspective and a comprehensive plan for relief. Whether you’re looking for a non-invasive treatment or simply want to explore new approaches to gut health, GERDHealthMD can help guide you toward lasting results.

To learn more or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Thomae, visit GERDHealthMD.com today.