Frequent overeating can increase the risk not only of excess weight gain but also of gastrointestinal disorders. About 3,000 cases of stomach cancer are diagnosed annually in Kazakhstan, with nearly 60% of patients seeking medical care at a late stage, according to the Kazakh Research Institute of Oncology and Radiology.
Surgical oncologist Abay Jumanov explains that regularly overloading the stomach can impair its motility and increase the risk of chronic inflammation of the stomach lining, reflux and precancerous changes. In the long term, he says, such conditions can contribute to the development of stomach cancer.
«Therefore, it is crucial to develop mindful eating habits and not ignore symptoms,» Jumanov said.
Specialists at the institute explain that although the stomach is elastic, regular overeating can cause its walls to lose some of their elasticity. As a result, the organ may become less effective at contracting and moving food through the digestive tract.
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Food can then remain in the stomach longer than normal, disrupting digestion and causing a feeling of heaviness even after eating a small amount.
How overeating can contribute to reflux
Oncologists note that pressure from an overfilled stomach can affect the lower esophageal sphincter, a ring of muscle that helps keep stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. When the sphincter does not close properly, stomach acid and partially digested food can flow upward.
This can cause a burning sensation behind the breastbone, heartburn and acid regurgitation. Frequent reflux can damage the lining of the esophagus over time.
Symptoms to watch for
Symptoms that warrant attention include:
- Heartburn, reflux and loss of appetite.
- Feeling full after eating only a small amount.
- Persistent heaviness in the upper abdomen.
- Nausea.
- Pain.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Anemia, weakness and fatigue.
In later stages, symptoms may include vomiting blood, black or tarry stools and severe pain.
