Digestion initially begins in the mouth. As you start to chew your food, digestive enzymes found in saliva begin to break it down, preparing for nutrient absorption. It’s important to chew your food thoroughly to achieve maximum absorption of all your vitamins and minerals.
HOW TO CHEW PROPERLY
To get into the habit of chewing foods thoroughly, try counting the chews in each bite, aiming for 30 to 50 times before swallowing. Try putting your utensils down between bites to help you better concentrate on chewing.
• Chew every mouthful of food at least 30 times each, until the food becomes liquid.
• Chewing breaks down food and makes it easier on the stomach and small intestine.
• Saliva assists in the digestion of carbohydrates.
Saliva also makes the food more alkaline, which creates less gas. If you are feeling stressed during a meal, take deep breaths, chew, and let the simple act of chewing relax you. Taking the time to chew will help you to enjoy the whole spectrum of tastes and aromas that make up the meal. Simply slowing down and taking the time to chew your food will ease digestion, absorption and elimination.