Do I have to give up coffee?

For me, caffeine seems to have a direct effect on my stomach/esophogus, and a systemic effect. By that I mean that it's sympathethic properties causes more acid, I think.
I appreciate your dilemma. I have severe fatigue with my fibromyalgia, and caffeine seems to be the only thing that helps. I just have one drink in the morning, and so far, so good.
Here's what I do to help "soften the blow" of the caffeine. First of all, since I have alot of pain, I sometimes take exedrine free (with acetominophin instead of aspirin), and the effects of the caffeine on my stomach seem to be diminished. But I'd hate to recommend taking acetominophen, if you don't need it. Another thing I do sometimes is to take a rolaids tablet just before I drink the caffeine. It alkalinizes the stomach for a short while. I also think that calcium helps with my stomach problems too. But you certainly wouldn't want to do this with every caffeine drink during the day, because you could really mess up your electrolytes.
Today in the paper, I noticed an ad for a new coffee coming out, that says it's for people who have stomach problems with coffee. I think it's one of the major brands, like Maxwell House or Folgers. The big problem with coffee is that it is soooooo acidic, even when it's decafeinated.........so maybe this new type would help.
Another possibility for you is to give up the coffee, but take small doses of something like no-doz.........but be sure to read what the other ingredients are too.
Another possibility, which you probably aren't interested in, is slowly "detoxing" from caffeine altogether. I should do that myself......but I really think I'm addicted! I think caffeine can give us a rebound tiredness when it wears off........and we need another shot of it. But if you could take a month or so and learn to live without it, I'll bet your energy levels would rise on their own.
Also be sure that you are avoiding alot of refined products, white flour and sugar. Those can also make us very tired. Good luck!

Try drinking a big glass of water after you drink your coffee. That seems to work for me. Chocolate also has ingredients that stir up stomach acid. I will never quit eating chocolate,thats the one enjoyment I have left!

 LOL, Joan that is the way I look at it.  I am already 53,how much longer do I want to be here anyways?  The coffee stays,and so does the chocolate!  Us old folks are stubborn,my Dr said drink tea. I like tea,but not in the morning when I get up. Besides,coffee helps the old guts get moving,so to speak..........................

I was a graduate student for seven years, so I understand your dilemma. But I quit coffee, which, no matter what I did, felt like I had eaten glass. You will have severe withdrawal symptoms and intense cravings for the first month, then suddenly, you won't need it anymore to stay awake or feel alert. Try to quit, it's the best thing you can do for your tissues.

Hi ELLEN, PLEASE GIVE ME THE NAME OF THE NEW FOLGER'S COFFEE. AM I A HORRIBLE PERSON TO ASSUME YOU MEAN NYC AND NOT THE ENTIRE STATE OF NY??? AT ANY RATE I WILL TRY TO REMEMBER THE NAME OF THE COFFEE IS YOU WOULD KIND RESPOND TO MY REQUEST.

THANK YOU

Thanks all for your thoughtful replies.  It's a great comfort to know that others are in the same boat.  I'll definitely look into that Simply Smooth.  I've been away from the msg board cowering in a dark room w/ my caffeine headaches.  I won't give it up entirely, but one cup a day.  Surely, I can have one tiny cup.