Ever heard that before? I just heard it and loved it.
And because your only teeth are the ones in your mouth, you need to chew that food in your mouth. And chew it really well.
Why?
Because digestion starts in the mouth! Chewing breaks down food into smaller, more easily digestible pieces and the enzymes in saliva start the digestion process. If you don’t chew your food, you’re making it harder for your digestive system to do its job.
So?
Well, if your digestive system can’t break down food, you’ll get bloated, gassy, stomach achey and tired. Not fun. NOT CUTE.
We eat to fuel our bodies. Digestion is about getting the important nutrients into our bodies and eliminating the waste. If your system has to work overtime to get the job done, there’s more room for error. Plus, with all that energy going towards breaking down the food, you’ll end up feeling tired after you eat, instead of energized.
But when we chew our food really well, our digestive system doesn’t have to work as hard and we are able to absorb those important nutrients and feel good at the same time.
What does “really well” mean?
At least 30 times per mouthful. Aim for 30-50 chews per bite.
How about an added bonus? Yes! I love added bonuses!
Chewing your food helps you lose weight. Eating slower means you’re more mindful of what you’re eating and how much you’re eating. Instead of shoveling it in, you’re savoring every bite and accounting for every bite, and the awareness helps you from getting out of control.
Also, you’ll get full before you finish – because you’re breaking down the food and letting the nutrients get in. Voila! Body is sated! With less food! Hoorah!
And an added ADDED bonus? What you didn’t finish on that plate you can save for tomorrow. And just like that, you have another meal without the need for all the prep. How great is that?!
So next time you want to scarf down a heaping plate of whatever, STOP. And chew. (Did you think I was going to say Hammer Time? Collaborate and listen? You totally thought I was. 😉 )
Question of the Day:
What old school tune gets you on the dance floor every time?
Health Coach Jillian 