Ajit Karn
Why chewing your food is so important? As children, we were likely all instructed by our parents to consume more slowly and digest our food thoroughly, but as adults, we tend to disregard this advice. When life is moving quicker than ever, taking the time to savor a meal is a true luxury. However, there are numerous factors why a more mindful approach to consuming could be beneficial to your health. In fact, according to a recent study from the University of Manchester, consuming more leisurely can even boost your immune system.
What did the study show that Why chewing your food is so important?
Scientists found that when you chew, the action stimulates a specific type of immune cell called Th17. These cells protect against bacterial and fungal infections commonly found on the tongue and teeth.
One of the researchers Joanne Konkel from the University of Manchester said:
“The immune system performs a remarkable balancing act at barrier sites such as the skin, mouth and gut by fighting off harmful pathogens while tolerating the presence of normal friendly bacteria.”
Although they did point out that chewing particularly aggressively could lead to gum disease – so it’s best to strike a delicate balance.
Besides boosting your immune system, there are other potential benefits to breaking down your food properly:
Can chewing help you lose weight?
Slowly chewing food has been a weight loss strategy for decades; its origin can be traced back to a 1926 book on obesity. Nowadays, it is not uncommon to encounter dietary recommendations that specify a specific number of swallows per mouthful. Some believe that 32 is the mystical number.
Is there any scientific basis for this? Maybe. Researchers at the University of Birmingham demonstrated that protracted digestion does result in less food consumption during meals. A few hours later, participants in the study were also less inclined to nibble.
Other studies indicate that the brain must recognize that a meal has been consumed in order to switch off the substances that cause hunger. If you consume too quickly, you may end up overdoing. However, if you enjoy your meal, you are more likely to cease eating when you are satisfied.
Also read: Meal Planning for the Vegetarian Teen
Chewing boosts digestion
Whether or not it aids in weight loss, digesting your food thoroughly is a good habit to develop if you want to improve your digestion. Take note if bloating is a problem for you.
As one of the nutritional therapists explains, saliva contains an enzyme that initiates digestion in the pharynx. Chewing enhances the surface area of food in the mouth, allowing enzymes to break it down more efficiently.
