Helicobacter pylori is not and never was "protective" against anything, including GERD.
David Y
DY
Graham
D005744:Gastric Acid / Q000378:metabolism; D005756:Gastritis / Q000382:microbiology*; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000382:microbiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016481:Helicobacter Infections / Q000382:microbiology*; D016480:Helicobacter pylori / Q000502:physiology*; D006551:Hernia, Hiatal / Q000150:complications* / Q000382:microbiology; D006801:Humans; D012306:Risk