‘Tis the time of year to be merry, and to feel as stuffed as the Christmas turkey on the big day itself. But what if that fullness doesn’t fade away with the last of the mince pies? Could it be more than just a post-feast slump?

Feeling bloated and nauseous can sometimes be a warning sign of something much more serious – stomach cancer. According to research by the US hospital Cedars Sinai, persistent bloating, feeling full even after eating small amounts of food, and stomach pain could all be potential symptoms.

You might be wondering how a seemingly innocent post-meal discomfort could be linked to such a serious illness. Well, it all begins deep in the layers of the stomach, particularly the mucosa, which not only produces stomach acid and enzymes to digest food but also serves as a protective barrier against harmful substances.

Cedars Sinai’s research also highlighted certain risk factors that could make someone more susceptible to developing stomach cancer. These include being older, being male, belonging to certain ethnic groups, consuming a diet high in smoked or pickled foods, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and being overweight. Additionally, working in specific industries such as coal, metal, and rubber may also increase the risk.

The good news is that particular lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of developing stomach cancer. Avoiding smoked, salted, pickled, and cured foods, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and moderating alcohol intake are all recommended preventive measures.

As for symptoms, stomach cancer can also manifest in ways that affect digestion, like heartburn, acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, indigestion, and rapid fullness after eating. If you notice these symptoms or experience unexplained weight loss, the NHS recommends consulting your GP.

It’s important to remember that these symptoms don’t automatically point to stomach cancer and can sometimes have much milder causes. Nevertheless, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice if something seems off.

So, as you’re relishing that last slice of turkey and savouring a festive drink, pay close attention to how you feel – your body might be telling you more than you think.