Your main focus when you are eating is to fuel your body and satisfy your cravings. Chewing is not something that you spend a lot of time thinking about. However, the way that you chew can impact your gut and oral health.
What Is the Purpose of Chewing?
The main purpose of chewing is to break your food down into smaller parts so that it can be digested. Some foods require more chewing than others. Most foods only require a moderate amount of chewing. However, you need to chew slowly. There are several benefits of chewing food slowly.
The beginning of the digestion process starts with chewing. Your mouth releases saliva to break down the food. This helps the stomach relax so that the food will pass through your digestive system more easily.
Chewing slowly also helps increase satiety. Studies have shown that you actually reduce the amount of food that you take in per bite if you chew slowly. This can help curb your appetite. Weight loss is one of the benefits of chewing food slowly.
Tooth decay can occur if the food particles are left on your teeth for too long. When you chew for a longer period, your mouth produces more saliva. This helps remineralize your teeth and maintain the natural PH of your mouth.
How to Chew Your Food the Right Way
There is no particular way to chew your food. However, there are some things that you need to do to ensure that you chew your food properly. You should set a goal to chew at least 20 times before you swallow.
If you find that you are eating too quickly, then there are a few things that you can do. You should avoid doing other things while you are eating. You should only eat when you are at the table. Additionally, you should brush away food particles after you eat.
Chewing is a natural instinct, but the way that you chew can have a positive or negative effect on your overall health. That is why you need to eat mindfully and slowly. Not only will this benefit your health, but it will also allow you to enjoy your food more.
Going to the dentist regularly will also improve your oral and overall health. If you need a dentist, then you can contact North View Dental to schedule an appointment today.
