Intestinal metaplasia is a condition in which the cells that create the lining of your stomach are changed or replaced. The replacement cells are similar to the cells that create the lining of your intestines.
It’s considered a precancerous condition.
One theory is that this change may be caused by a type of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). This type of bacteria may turn parts of some foods into chemicals that cause the stomach cells to change.
While some people may have acid reflux problems or symptoms relating to an H. pylori infection, intestinal metaplasia is primarily asymptomatic. This means that there aren’t any visible symptoms related to this condition. It’s discovered by screenings through endoscopy procedures and biopsies.
The exact causes of intestinal metaplasia are still being researched. However, there are some factors known to increase your risk. These risk factors may include:
- smoking
- H. pylori infection
- genetics (having a close, first-degree relative with gastric cancer)
- environmental factors
Multiple risk factors usually are present in intestinal metaplasia. The cells of your stomach lining may also change on their own for reasons scientists don’t yet understand.
The first step in the treatment of intestinal metaplasia is using endoscopy to diagnose and biopsy the gastric lining.
Endoscopy is a procedure in which a long, thin tube is inserted into your body. There is a camera on the end that allows doctors to get a close look at your gastric lining in this case. A tool cam also be added to the end of the endoscope that will allow the doctor to take a small sample of a lesion or the gastric lining for a biopsy.
After confirming a diagnosis of intestinal metaplasia, the doctor can begin treatment. Currently, the most effective treatment is to remove the H. pylori infection completely. This removal is done in combination with the use of antioxidant agents.
Some dietary practices are believed to help in the prevention and treatment of intestinal metaplasia. These include eating lots of plant-based foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables because they are full of antioxidants. Antioxidants include vitamin C, vitamin E, flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenols.
Foods to eat
Some of the foods for prevention of intestinal metaplasia include the following. (Opt for organic tomatoes, berries, apples, grapes, cherries, peaches, and bell peppers since these fruits and vegetables are noted to have high pesticide residues.)
- apples (peel included)
- apricots
- artichoke, kale, and bell peppers (these have the highest antioxidant content of all vegetables)
- bananas
- beets
- berries (the best fruits for antioxidants)
- broccoli
- cherries
- cocoa and dark chocolate
- garlic
- grapes
- green tea
- herbs
- leeks
- mangoes
- nuts
- onions
- peaches
- plums
- seeds
- spices
- sweet potatoes
- tomatoes
- whole-grain cereals
Foods to avoid
In addition to adding good foods, you should avoid or limit other foods that have a high salt content.
In the United States,
Here are some foods to avoid because they have a high salt content:
- barbeque sauce
- ketchup
- olives
- pickles
- processed meats (hot dogs, ham, etc.)
- salty chips
- sauerkraut
- some cheeses
- some salad dressings
- soy sauce
In addition to adjusting your diet, one of the best ways to try to prevent intestinal metaplasia is to stop smoking. Not smoking will also help in the treatment of this condition.
Intestinal metaplasia is believed to be a precancerous lesion that may lead to gastric cancer. If you have intestinal metaplasia, then your risk of getting gastric cancer is
Intestinal metaplasia is a precancerous type of lesion. There are ways you can try to limit some of your risks. However, not all risks can be avoided. When you have intestinal metaplasia, the sooner you start treating it, the better your chances of keeping it under control and possibly even reversing it.