Your body was never meant to rush through meals. Discover how taking your time at the table can boost energy, reduce bloating, and bring you improved overall wellness.
Along with chiropractic and spinal wellness care I have had many conversations with patients in office and across the US about overall health. These consultations can be about exercise, detoxification and cellular healing protocols included with methods to reduce inflammation at the cell level.
One thing I have realized with many of my patients is the inability to take their time when they eat. This is of critical importance for overall health. Our GI system from the mouth to the large intestine relies on a level above. For example the stomach relies on the mouth to break down food by slowly chewing so the stomach can properly absorb nutrients that have been released.
Not only is it true that you are what you eat but you are how you eat.
Following are 7 key reasons why eating slowly is essential for healthy digestion and overall well-being:
1. Enhances Digestive Enzyme Function
Chewing thoroughly breaks food into smaller particles, allowing saliva and digestive enzymes to begin breaking down carbohydrates and fats effectively before the food even reaches the stomach.
2. Prevents Overeating
It takes about 20 minutes for the brain to receive signals of fullness from the stomach. Eating slowly gives your body time to recognize satiety, helping prevent overeating and discomfort.
3. Reduces Bloating and Gas
Fast eaters tend to swallow more air, which can lead to bloating and gas. Slow, mindful eating minimizes air intake and supports smoother digestion.
4. Improves Nutrient Absorption
Properly chewed and digested food increases nutrient availability, allowing your entire digestive tract to absorb vitamins, minerals, and amino acids more efficiently.
5. Supports Healthy Weight Management
Eating slowly encourages portion control and helps regulate appetite hormones like ghrelin and leptin, supporting a balanced metabolism and body weight.
6. Promotes Relaxation and Parasympathetic Activity
Eating slowly activates the “rest and digest” response of the nervous system, improving stomach acid secretion and intestinal motility for smoother digestion.
7. Enhances Awareness and Enjoyment of Food
Mindful eating promotes a deeper appreciation for flavors and textures, fostering a healthier relationship with food and reducing stress-related digestive issues.
As you can see and to reaffirm the importance of what I first mentioned, your body was never meant to rush through meals. It’s yours to take care of.