Nathalie was among the more than 21 million Americans suspected of suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, which is caused when harsh stomach acid backs up into the esophagus or food tube. By visiting her doctor, Nathalie was able to be diagnosed and appropriately treated. Today, Nathalie appeared on Philadelphia morning television to launch of Acid Control Comfort Zone, an educational program designed to raise awareness of GERD and to encourage others to obtain a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A telltale symptom of GERD is frequent and persistent heartburn, that rising burning sensation behind the breastbone. Contrary to popular belief, GERD is not caused by "comfort" foods such as chocolate, coffee or a greasy burger and fries. However, these foods may exacerbate heartburn symptoms. Persistent heartburn on two or more days a week that is severe enough to disrupt everyday living may signal GERD.

Nathalie Dupree's Case History

"There were days when I felt completely debilitated by this constant and nagging heartburn that often kept me up at night. No amount of over-the-counter heartburn medication relieved the discomfort aggravated by the foods I love to cook," said Ms. Dupree. "Thanks to my doctor, I now manage my GERD with Prilosec(R) (omeprazole) and have been able to broaden my cooking to include foods of a spicier flair."

In order to share her experience and help educate the public about this problem, Ms. Dupree is partnering with physicians during a nationwide tour, Acid Control Comfort Zone. Nathalie is sharing her favorite recipes, which she is now able to enjoy.

"Like Nathalie, before seeking medical advice many of my patients suffered needlessly with GERD," said Seymour Katz, M.D., clinical professor of medicine at New York University School of Medicine. "If left untreated, GERD can lead to more serious problems such as narrowing or ulceration of the esophagus." Of course, Nathalie's results may not be typical of every patient. Clinical results may vary.

With more than 20 years of experience in the culinary world, Nathalie Dupree has served as a successful chef, restaurateur, teacher, author, and TV cooking show host. Ms. Dupree has hosted more than 300 television cooking shows on PBS, The Learning Channel and the Television Food Network. Her daily "Home Cooking" tips have been syndicated on more than 1,000 radio stations.

An award-winning author, Ms. Dupree has written eight cookbooks. Her most recent book, Nathalie Dupree's Comfortable Entertaining, will hit America's bookstores in the Fall of 1998. Prilosec is generally well-tolerated, but it is not for everybody. The most common side effects are headache (6.9%), diarrhea (3.0%), and abdominal pain (2.4%).

For more information about GERD and other acid-related conditions or a copy of the full prescribing information for Prilosec, call 800-705-8814 or visit the GERD information website at www.acidcontrol.com.