The Power Of Chewing
How Slowing Down Benefits Your Body and Your Teeth
When was the last time you actually thought about chewing your food?
And I’m not talking about just your teeth and how it feels to chew, but what the practice actually has to offer you. Most of us eat on autopilot by grabbing bites between meetings, eating while scrolling, or barely pausing between mouthfuls. But the simple act of chewing your food properly has a massive impact on your life. I can support your digestion, nutrient absorption, and even your dental health when you actually put intention into it.
Chewing is one of the most overlooked tools, but it won’t continue to be for long!
Digestion Starts in Your Mouth
We often think digestion begins in the stomach, I know I did for a majority of my life. But in reality, it starts the moment food enters your mouth. Your teeth break down food into smaller pieces, and your saliva contains enzymes that kick-start digestion while you’re swallowing your food. Now, why am I telling you this? It’s because you deserve:
✔ Less digestive stress: The more you chew, the less work your stomach has to do, meaning fewer bloating, gas, and discomfort.
✔ Better nutrient absorption: Well-chewed food is easier for the body to break down and pull essential nutrients from.
✔ Prevents overeating: Chewing slower gives your brain time to register fullness, reducing the chances of eating past satisfaction.
The Connection You Never Knew
We all know sugar is bad for our teeth, we hear it all the time, but what about how we eat?
Our normal process is fast, rushed eating. It’s become an automation, which means less chewing, and that leads to less saliva production. And here’s where things get interesting! Saliva helps us break down food, all while protecting your teeth by neutralizing harmful acids and washing away bacteria.
Say what?! Crazy, right?! Let me break it down for you a bit:
✔ More saliva = natural protection against tooth decay and cavities
✔ Less acid exposure = lower risk of enamel erosion
✔ Stronger jaw muscles = better long-term oral health and stability
So, if you want stronger digestion and stronger teeth, go back to where the process starts! Focus on small shifts, something as simple as chewing your food more thoroughly.
Mindful Chewing 101
If you’ve spent years rushing through meals, slowing down can feel strange at first. This is normal, not a judgement on your part. But small, intentional changes can make a huge difference for anyone willing to be curious about it. So, here are a few mindful chewing tips to help:
Chew each bite at least 15-20 times before swallowing. (More for tougher foods like meats or raw veggies, if you can.)
Put your fork down between bites to naturally slow your pace. (This helps you engage with the mouthful instead of filling your utensil.)
Breathe between bites to reset your nervous system and reduce stress eating. (In through the nose and out through the mouth, but not while your mouth is full. We don’t want you to choke!)
Notice textures and flavors as you chew and ask yourself prompting questions to help you stay present. (This makes eating more enjoyable and satisfying.)
Final Thoughts
Chewing is something we do every day without thinking about it, but bringing just a little more awareness to it can make digestion easier, reduce bloating, improve nutrient absorption, and even protect your teeth.
So next time you sit down for a meal, remember: slower bites, better digestion, healthier teeth. Your stomach, and your dentist, will thank you! And if you have any questions, you can email me at info.khhllc@gmail.com.
