Not much information to go on...
Protect it from what? Typically, PPIs are used to reduce stomach acid to treat/prevent GERD and gastro/duodenitis or ulcers. But, some of us suffering from chronic caustic stools (butt burn) have seen improvement of symptoms by using PPIs. But, it is not a given. Also, if you use these drugs long term, you are at a higher risk for B-12 malabsorption (which we may already be at risk for). So, not a completely innocuous drug.
Personally, I am not into taking meds unless actually needed. I am not saying you don't need it, but maybe you need to ask your doc for more information.
Jan