Last month we talked about getting our veggies in, have you been eating more veggies? This month we are going to talk about chewing. Yes, seriously chewing. I know, you just rolled your eyes at me but keep reading and you might learn something! One of the things that I have noticed with most of my clients is that they are rushing everywhere and never actually chew their food. When you don’t chew your food can’t be broken down so you aren’t absorbing any nutrients. This month, let’s change that!
First, I want you to slow down. Actually sit at a table and give thanks for your food. LOOK at your plate or bowl and take note of what you are about to consume. Let eating be an experience not something that has to be raced through so that you can get to the next activity. At our house our phones, computers, and other electronics aren’t allowed at the table. We will talk about that more but let me tell you that meal times are so much more enjoyable when that’s what you are focusing on.
Second, I want you to chew your food at least thirty times. Yes, chew that food up! When you chew, saliva is created to digest your food. This allows the nutrients to be absorbed better and helps with heartburn, acid reflux, and flatulence. Wouldn’t it be nice to alleviate some tummy troubles? This is a really good time to focus on the flavors, textures and enjoyment of your meal.
Third, if you are drinking a shake, smoothie, or green juice you need to swish it around in your mouth. I know it’s weird but this gets your saliva flowing to break down those nutrients and digest that shake.
Finally, pay attention. By chewing your food and enjoying your meal you just might notice that you are fuller before you normally are!
thedavisdailydose says
February 13, 2015 at 11:18 amI have read this before when it applies to noticing that you are feeling full! Great post! Thanks for sharing!
emmymom2 says
February 13, 2015 at 12:05 pmI definitely eat a lot less when I slow down and actually enjoy the meal. Great tips!
Alicia says
February 13, 2015 at 1:52 pmI tend to eat less by going to lunch with a friend because we are talking and not rushing through lunch!
Chelsea says
February 13, 2015 at 5:05 pmHaha, try telling my boyfriend this!! That man eats like someone is going to take his food away from him.
Claire says
February 13, 2015 at 5:56 pmWe all eat too quickly – I am constantly on the run from one meeting or shoot to the next. Love this reminder!
geniabeme says
February 13, 2015 at 5:58 pmEasier said than done! If its good… You can't stop me!!
phyrra says
February 13, 2015 at 7:23 pmI had no idea saliva helped with heartburn
makeupbylaurag says
February 13, 2015 at 9:24 pmI didn't know the saliva tip. I have been having a lot of heartburn lately.
loveforlacquer says
February 14, 2015 at 8:00 amThis is such a great reminder! definitely need to take our time and enjoy what we have in front of us!
Amanda Matheny says
February 14, 2015 at 11:31 amThis is a great suggestion. Most people aren't aware of the nutritional value of chewing, but even so they rush through their food like they haven't eaten in a month! People really should take the time to sit down, relax, and enjoy a meal. Even if they're running around like a chicken with their head cut off most of the day, slow down for a moment and enjoy the break.
Carly says
February 14, 2015 at 9:48 pmSuch good advice, I feel like I rush through meals way too often!
Courtney Pies says
February 16, 2015 at 10:48 amWhat a great reminder. I know I get so caught in how delicious my food is, that I eat it too fast. I definitely need to slow down and chew my food more and appreciate it.
kristine says
February 17, 2015 at 11:46 amI need to remind myself this! Seriously with two littles even when we do sit down for supper every night it's still shoveling food in my face so fast to make sure everyone is taken care of at the table.
bethwade1 says
February 19, 2015 at 3:25 pmThere was a "health" movement in the 1700s that advocated chewing every bite 100 times before swallowing, to ease digestion. I like 30 better than 100, but I've never had to count. I'm always the slowest eater, because I like savoring my food- and you can't do that if you don't look at it, smell it, and chew it enough to truly taste it all over your tongue! So this is good advice for health but also for enjoying life more. 😉