Is it possible that even though i am on pantoprazole at 40mg per day, that eating very spicy foods could cause flare ups with my gastritis? ive been told that ppis dont protect you 100% from spicy foods or alcohol for example.

Antacid: You may add a quick acting antacid such as Tums to relieve symptoms. Please avoid caffeine and spicy foods, eat yogurt and follow up with your physician.

Some basics: The PPI meds reduce but do not end acid production by the proton pumps. They can make the local tissue environment stable enough to heal prior tissue disruption but are not a barrier against known tissue irritants like alcohol/spices. If your system is more sensitive to these irritants than others, this is something you learn to manage over time. Moderation in all things works.