Stop! You're chewing your food all wrong.

Did you know that you can eat all the nutritious and large quantities of food but still end up malnourished or nutrient deficient if you don't chew your food properly!? (And by properly It doesn't mean eating like celebrities do or following all the table manners so, relax )

Chewing food properly is

• An essential aspect of a healthy diet and a better nutritious life.

• A simple, yet often overlooked, practice that has a significant impact on our overall well-being.

The process of chewing is the first step in the digestion of food(mechanical digestion). Basically, when we chew our food, the teeth break down the food into smaller pieces, This process prepares the food for further digestion in the stomach and small intestine, where it is broken down into nutrients that our bodies can absorb.

Chewing food thoroughly has several benefits for our health. Here are some of the reasons why it is important to chew your food properly:

1. Better digestion: When we chew our food properly, it is broken down into smaller pieces that are easier to digest. This allows the digestive enzymes in our stomach and small intestine to work more efficiently, which can help to reduce digestive problems such as bloating, constipation, and acid reflux.

2. Improved nutrient absorption: Chewing food properly also helps to release more nutrients from the food, which can be absorbed by the body. This is because the digestive enzymes have better access to the food particles, and can break them down more effectively.

3. Weight management: Chewing food thoroughly can help to reduce the amount of food we eat. This is because it takes time for our brain to register that we are full, and chewing our food more slowly can help to give our brain time to catch upwith our stomachs. This can help to prevent overeating and promote weight management.

4. Better dental health: Chewing food properly can also improve our dental health. When we chew, our teeth release saliva, which helps to neutralize the acid in our mouth and prevent tooth decay. Chewing also helps to strengthen our jaw muscles, which can reduce the risk of dental problems such as gum disease and tooth loss.

5. Improved overall health: Chewing food properly can promote better overall health. It can help to reduce the risk of digestive problems, maintain a healthy weight, and improve dental health. It can also promote mindful eating, which can help to reduce stress and improve our relationship with food.

So, how can we ensure that we are chewing our food properly? Here are some tips:

1. Take your time: It’s important to take your time when eating and chew your food slowly. Aim to chew each bite at least 20 to 30 times before swallowing.

2. Pay attention to your food: When you eat, focus on the taste, texture, and aroma of your food. This can help you to enjoy your food more and promote mindful eating.

3. Avoid distractions: Try to avoid distractions such as watching TV or scrolling through your phone when you eat. This can help you to focus on your food and chew more slowly.

4. Cut your food into smaller pieces: Cutting your food into smaller pieces can make it easier to chew and digest.

In conclusion, chewing food properly is a simple yet effective way to promote better health and nutrition. By taking the time to chew our food thoroughly, we can improve our digestion, nutrient absorption, dental health, and overall well-being. So, the next time you sit down for a meal, remember to take your time, pay attention to your food, and chew each bite thoroughly. Your body will thank you for it!