@wandafanda When I looked at the studies about long-term effects of PPI's, most were looking at years of daily meds, not months. So perhaps that can help you feel better about extending your meds for a while.

I also took a look at kelp (algae) as a treatment. Although long, this article points to the usefulness:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6836317/
Their conclusion is helpful:
"In this expert opinion paper, we evaluated the different aspects of alginate treatment in patients with GERD. It is possible to conclude from the existing studies that:

According to the production methods, each alginate has different characteristics, and it is not possible to replace an alginate from one source with one from another source. Basic science studies showed that Laminaria hyperborea was able to form strong, coherent, voluminous and highly buoyant rafts compared to others.

Alginate has a unique mode of action, producing raft formation. The effect is fast.

Alginate monotherapy is a preferable option for the treatment of mild GERD symptoms.

In patients with severe or breakthrough symptoms in PPI-unresponsive GERD, alginates can be used in combination with PPIs to improve symptoms and to reduce reflux events.

Although more data are needed, the efficacy in regurgitation-dominant GERD is possibly higher with alginates.

Alginates have a place in the management of atypical GERD symptoms.

Alginate can be used either long term and/or on-demand therapy following the cessation of PPIs.

In the treatment of GERD in children, alginates have a proven and efficient effect and are safe.

Alginates can be used in pregnancy and lactation as a first-line therapy."
The biggest take-aways are that ONLY CERTAIN alginates are useful, and studies show they can be used to supplement, replace, or wean from PPI's.