Intestinal Metaplasia: What do you do to lower the risk of cancer?

I've just been diagnosed with complete-type intestinal metaplasia antral. I do not have H Pylori. What does low spice mean? Do I need to not cook with turmeric, cumin, chili powder, curry powder, cayenne pepper, etc. I am on pantoprazole, but still have constant heartburn.

Thanks for the suggestion of low acid coffee and the Acid Watcher Diet.

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Hello @amylynn2 and welcome to the Digestive Health support group on Mayo Connect. I have had several surgeries of the upper digestive tract and I follow a low residue (low fiber) as well as low spice eating plan as well.

You will probably have to experiment with how much spice is "too much." By that I mean that some spices might produce more heartburn symptoms than others. The quantity of spices might also be a factor in your symptom control.

From my own experience, when cumin, curry powder or cayenne pepper are called for in a recipe, I just sprinkle some in, I don't use the measurement suggested by the recipe.

I would suggest that you keep a journal of what foods/spices that you ear and what symptoms they cause. Eating small, frequent meals is usu ally better than eating large meals.

I hope that you find an eating plan that works for you. Did your GI doctor provide you with any specific diet restrictions?

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Actually my first GI doctor forgot to tell me I had this. My primary
doctor did. I see a new GI doctor Tuesday.

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@amylynn2

I'm glad that you will be seeing a GI doctor on Tuesday. Please let the doctor know about the need for a good eating plan that will help to reduce the heartburn you are experiencing.

I look forward to hearing from you again. Will you post again after your appointment?

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I have some abnormal cells too along with chronic gastritis, I also had H Pylori too which is a risk factor. Get checked for that. I also have Barretts Esophagus which is in remission due to my taking of PPI's and a strict low acid diet. NO booze, No smoking. No soda! Drink water, decaf green tea, unsweetened almond milk which is alkaline. No mexican, Italian or FRIED FOODS! It's scary thinking about stomach cancer.Do what you can to put the odds in your favor.

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I have some abnormal cells too along with chronic gastritis, I also had H Pylori too which is a risk factor. Get checked for that. I also have Barretts Esophagus which is in remission due to my taking of PPI's and a strict low acid diet. NO booze, No smoking. No soda! Drink water, decaf green tea, unsweetened almond milk which is alkaline. No mexican, Italian or FRIED FOODS! It's scary thinking about stomach cancer.Do what you can to put the odds in your favor.

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I received the diagnosis of intestinal metaplasia and, much like many of you, it's really gotten to me. I understand that there are many different contributing factors that make it more / less concerning; however, it is my understanding that it turning to full on GC is fairly low. My only dietary advice was to avoid smoked and salty meats, like hot dogs, salamis, etc and no smoking. I've decided to eliminate practically everything from the plate including all cheeses, sweets, Italian foods, Mexican foods, sodas, chips, fries. Quick question though - am I looking for absolutely NO sugar and salt diet? What's worked for you?

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