Chew Better, Feel Better: Simple Steps to Improve Your Digestion

The Forgotten Art of Chewing

We’ve mastered the art of multitasking, but at what cost? Our dining tables have become extensions of our workstations and entertainment centres. We gulp down meals while our eyes are glued to screens, our minds absorbed in the latest outrage.

But here’s the rub: your digestive system didn’t get the memo about this “efficiency.”

The Mindless Munching Epidemic

 A man comes home after a long day, settles in front of the TV, and eats his dinner while Arnab Goswami’s impassioned monologues fill the air. Sound familiar?

This scenario plays out in countless homes every night. We’ve become so disconnected from eating that we barely notice what (or how) we consume.

The Chewing Revolution

But what if I told you that chewing could be your digestive system’s secret weapon? By simply paying attention to how you eat, you could,

1. Improve nutrient absorption
2. Reduce bloating and discomfort
3. Aid weight management
4. Enhance overall digestive health

Sounds too good to be true? It’s not. It’s just biology.

The Four Commandments of Conscious Chewing

1. Take smaller bites.

2. Chew slowly and deliberately

3. Liquefy your food before swallowing

4. Swallow completely before taking another bite

It’s not rocket science, but it does require presence. And therein lies the challenge.

Breaking the Distracted Dining Habit

We’ve conditioned ourselves to seek constant stimulation. Eating without distraction feels… well, boring. But here’s the thing: boredom can be a catalyst for change.

By embracing the “boredom” of mindful eating, you’re tuning into a fascinating process happening inside your body. You’re becoming an active participant in your health.

The Ripple Effect

The benefits of mindful chewing extend beyond digestion. Studies suggest it can

•  Reduce stress and anxiety
•  Improve nutrient absorption
•  Lower the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes
•  Enhance overall satisfaction with meals

It’s a simple change with profound implications.

The Choice Is Yours

You can continue to let TV pundits dictate the pace of your meals, or you can take control of your digestive destiny. The power is in your jaws.

So, the next time you eat, try this: Turn off the TV. Could you put down your phone? And… chew. Chew. Taste your food. Feel its texture. Listen to the sounds of your mastication.

It might feel strange at first—uncomfortable, even—but stick with it. And who knows? You might even start to enjoy your meals more.

After all, isn’t that what eating is supposed to be about?