PostedSeptember 13, 2022, 6:00 PM
HEALTH: 5 signs that prove that you are not chewing your food enough
Did your parents tell you to chew well when you were little? They were absolutely right! We’ll tell you why.
A healthy diet begins with good chewing, the slow and deep movements of which primarily benefit the digestive system, but are also beneficial to the whole body, mind and general well-being. We’re going to show you the signs that betray the fact that you’re not spending enough time on your meals.
1. You’re not really full
Taking the time to chew food well helps you feel full. Because the feeling of hunger is born in the brain. When we eat, the latter seeks to obtain a certain number of data relating in particular to the flow of saliva, the level of filling of the stomach and the blood sugar level. And it takes some time for the brain (at least 15 minutes) to assimilate these signals. When we eat quickly, the stomach fills up, of course, but this information does not have time to reach the brain, which means that we continue to eat, when it is no longer necessary.
What are the effects of good chewing?
Chewing and salivary enzymes break down food into smaller fractions allowing the body to better absorb and digest it. Thanks to this process, digestion problems such as heartburn, bloating and constipation problems are avoided.
2. You suffer from aerophagia and heartburn
When we eat, we not only swallow food, but also air, which the body once more tries to evacuate. To avoid the absorption of air in the stomach as much as possible, it is advisable to chew slowly and for a long time, if possible at least 40 times per bite. You should also avoid talking while eating and take regular breaks.
3. You suffer from stomach pain, bloating and flatulence
It should be kept in mind that our stomach has no teeth. The slower and more extensive the chewing, the greater the amount of saliva released into the oral cavity. This releases more digestive enzymes to break down carbohydrates and other nutrients. A well chewed food is half digested: you therefore relieve the stomach and the intestines, since a large part of the digestive function is ensured by the grinding of food and salivation. If you wolf down your meal and swallow large chunks, you may experience stomach upset, bloating, and gas.
4. You are stressed
Are you the type to put on a pasta salad in front of the computer? If you’re not eating mindfully, you’re definitely taking a break, but you’re not getting any benefit from it. Taking the time to eat and chew well has a double benefit: repeated chewing stimulates blood circulation in the brain, as it strengthens the muscles of the head. Enough to avoid the followingnoon slump. In addition, chewing has a positive effect on the nervous system and helps reduce stress.
5. You’re out of shape
Swallowing a banana at top speed is only half the battle, because only good chewing can extract the valuable trace elements, vitamins and minerals from the food. Do you feel flat, tired, washed out? Before resorting to food supplements, start by chewing well: this will help your body get the most benefits from fruits and vegetables.
little tip: to eat mindfully, you should set your cutlery regularly, breathe in and out several times and become fully aware of the smell of your meal, which is decisive for the taste.
What are your tips for mindful eating?