Hey friends,
It’s Lavanda Michelle here, and I’ve got something small but mighty to talk about—chewing your food. Yes, chewing! I know it may seem like a basic part of eating, but believe it or not, it plays a huge role in your digestion, energy, and even your waistline.
Let me tell you, during my weight loss journey, this tiny habit made a noticeable difference. I used to rush through meals—multitasking, scrolling, or just plain eating too fast. But once I started slowing down and chewing with intention, things started to change. My digestion improved, I felt fuller sooner, and my tummy thanked me every time.
So, let’s break down why chewing your food properly matters more than you might think.
1. Helps Your Digestion Get Started Right
When you chew your food well, you’re not just mashing it—you’re prepping it for your stomach. Your mouth releases saliva, which contains enzymes like amylase that begin breaking down carbs before the food even reaches your stomach. This gives your belly a head start, making digestion smoother and faster.
2. Boosts Nutrient Absorption
Chewing turns big chunks into small particles, and that’s great for your intestines. Smaller food pieces mean a larger surface area for nutrients to be absorbed. If you rush and swallow chunks, your body might miss out on some of the good stuff—vitamins, minerals, and more.
3. Prevents Bloating and Indigestion
Ever eaten too fast and felt gassy or uncomfortable? That’s often because food wasn’t chewed enough. Large bits can ferment in the gut and lead to bloating, gas, or indigestion. I’ve been there, and trust me—chewing more is an easy fix!
4. Encourages Mindful Eating
When I chew slower, I actually taste my food. It’s a total game-changer! Slowing down helps your brain realize when you’re full, so you naturally eat less. This helped me cut down on overeating—and let me enjoy meals more!
5. Keeps Your Mouth Happy
Chewing boosts saliva, and saliva helps clean your mouth, wash away food particles, and fight off tooth decay. It’s like a natural mouth rinse, just by eating! Who knew chewing could help keep your smile bright?
6. Makes Food More Enjoyable
Don’t just eat to get it over with. Chewing helps you enjoy textures, flavors, and even the smells of your food. I used to inhale my meals—now I actually appreciate them. And y’all know how much I love a flavorful bite!
How Long Should You Chew Your Food? A Quick Guide by Food Type
You don’t need to count every chew like a robot (unless that’s your vibe 😄), but here’s a general guide to help you slow down and chew just right:
| Food Type | Recommended Chews per Bite | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Soft fruits (e.g., bananas, berries) | 5–10 chews | Already soft—just break it down enough to mix with saliva. |
| Cooked veggies & grains (e.g., rice, potatoes) | 15–20 chews | Helps carbs break down with salivary enzymes. |
| Lean proteins (e.g., chicken, fish) | 20–30 chews | Takes longer to break down—chewing helps your stomach out. |
| Raw veggies & salads (e.g., carrots, spinach) | 30–40 chews | Tougher texture—needs more work for smooth digestion. |
| Nuts & seeds | 30–40 chews | Small but dense—proper chewing unlocks nutrients. |
| Breads & pastries | 20–30 chews | Chewing well reduces bloating from doughy foods. |
Final Thoughts from Lavanda Michelle
Chewing may seem like a “duh” part of eating, but it’s actually the first and most important step in digestion. It helps your body get more from the food you eat—and it’s free and easy to do! No fancy equipment, no special diet. Just your teeth and a little mindfulness.
So next time you sit down to eat, slow down. Take a breath. Enjoy each bite. Your body (and your taste buds) will thank you.
Why Chewing Your Food More Could Be the Health Hack You’re Missing
Until next time, shine amongst the stars!
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Think chewing is just about not choking? Think again! 🧠🦷 Discover why chewing your food properly helps with digestion, weight loss, and more. 🍽️ Read the blog 👉#Wellness #MindfulEating
