Do you remember the chapter in our science book in school that recommended chewing our Food 32 times before finally gulping it down??
The science behind is that our digestion process starts not in our stomach but in our mouth itself.
The role of the saliva & teeth is not emphasized on as much but is quite essential for digestion.
In such fast paced world, no body has got time to sit & eat food comfortably.
This is one major tip for improving digestion.
Better digestion leads to better weight loss.
Pro Tip: As you start chewing your food properly, you may notice visible changes in the appearance of your jawline.
Happy Chewing!
Dietician Surbhi Aggarwal
Chewing Your Food 32 Times: The Key to Enhanced Digestion and Health
Have you ever thought about how fast we gobble up food without engaging our jaws? It’s simple to ignore, but the reality is that how we chew it can change our digestion and health for the better. Medical professionals encourage chewers to go through 32 mastications before swallowing, this simple act can boost digestion, increase nutrient intake, and improve well being.
Why 32 Times?
The suggestion to chew each bite of food 32 times seems to stem from how the process of chewing works, it breaks down food into finer bits that are easy for your stomach and intestines to absorb. The process of chewing sends a trigger to the digestive system to prepare for proper digestion. The number of chews can defer from person to another, but the general guideline is that the finer the chew, the more optimal the operation of the digestive system.
The Importance of Chewing in Digestion
The first stage of digestion starts with the process of chewing, as it is an essential part of the entire digestive process. Saliva combines with the food while chewing, creating smaller exquisite particles of food. Enzymes responsible for breaking down carbohydrates are present in saliva, and the chewing process allows for easier passage of food through the digestive system.
By chewing food properly, you can avoid having your stomach work extra hard to break down huge pieces of food at the expense of your personal comfort. This can potentially avoid indigestion and bloating as well as other digestive complications. In addition, chewing triggers the production of stomach acid which aid in protein digestion.
Mindful Eating for Better Health
Chewing food 32 times stimulates mindful eating, a technique that encourages the method of being completely focused while consuming a meal. This also means taking notice of the various aspects of food including the taste and texture while taking individual bites of food, which inturn slows down the eating pace. Mindful eating promotes self-regulation of calorie intake as well as supports the individual in recognizing the body’s feel of satiation.
A healthy relationship with food can be achieved through mindful eating which emphasizes focusing on digestion and weight. Encouraged by chewing food carefully, mindful eating helps to form a stronger bond with meals.
There are many undisputed advantages of mindful eating which include:
- Improved Digestion: Chewing food 32 times can enhance its break down. In so doing, the stomach and intestines are able to absorb more nutrients from the food.
- Better Nutrient Absorption: When food is broken into smaller pieces, the body is able to absorb vitamins and minerals more efficiently. Proper chewing ensures that the body extracts maximum nutrients from food.
- Weight Management: When food is consumed slowly and chewed well, overeating is reduced. This is because when food is chewed properly, it takes time to consume which subsequently triggers the body to signal satiety.
- Reduced Bloating and Gas: Large pieces of food entering the stomach without proper chewing can cause indigestion and bloating. Chewing food to a reasonable texture can significantly reduce the chances of discomfort.
- This can reduce the risk of cavities and promote healthier gums: Chewing stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria from your teeth.
How to Incorporate This Habit Into Your Routine
Making the habit of chewing your food 32 times a part of your daily routine doesn’t have to be difficult. Begin by working on your goal to eat slower. Pay attention to each bite, chew thoroughly, and try to enjoy the taste. Eventually, you will adapt to it which will show in your digestion and well-being.
If you find it challenging to count 32 chews, focus on chewing your food until it is fully broken down. You may be surprised at how more enjoyable meals become when you truly take the time to enjoy it.
The practice of chewing food thirty-two times per morcel may seem irrelevent but its impact is fundamental. It improves digestion, aids in nutrient absorption, promotes oral health, prevents obesity, and encourages conscious food consumption. Strengthening the focus of chewing may be small but it is instrumental towards the attainment of a holistic and nurturing lifestyle.
