Have you ever observed yourself while eating meals? How much time do you spend chewing and finishing all of them? Does it take less than 15 minutes? These are questions you may want to answer if you want to gain a bigger perspective – diet wise.
Today, I will talk about the importance of eating your food slowly and the amazing health advantage you can gain by consistently doing so.
The Science of Eating Slowly
Health experts agree that the brain is the major organ involved in you feeling a “full stomach.” Yes, the stomach is just a part of your feeling of being full. Your gastrointestinal tract secretes particular hormones to send signals to your brain that you have had enough, which results in satiety.
It actually takes about 20 minutes for your brain to receive signals that you are actually full. This is why I emphasize the need to eat slowly, savoring every bite.
If you want to maintain a healthy weight or you want to lose some pounds, eating slowly helps boost the release of weight-reducing hormones. A recent study showed that overweight people (both men and women) consume fewer calories when they slow down their pace of eating.
The Art of Eating Slowly
Slow eating opens a lot of doors for your taste buds. You allow yourself to experience the flavors, textures and the combination of them.
You can also play relaxing music, maybe light some candles and ensure a peaceful and quiet ambience. It may be best to turn off your TV and avoid using gadgets. You will see your meal become more enjoyable, and your mood more pleasant.
Start by eating a spoonful. Notice how the food pieces combine when you chew slowly. Take note of the flavor it brings and how it delightfully it lingers on your taste buds. You can also try to close your eyes and define the aroma it brings – just like smelling and sipping wine.
Here are a few of the many benefits of eating slowly:
- Weight loss: As mentioned above people who eat at a slower pace can lose weight and maintain a healthy weight.
- Improved digestion: Slow eating translates to better digestion because you chew your food better. Digestion begins in the mouth. Eating slowly activates the stretch receptors in your stomach, which means fewer gut problems.
- Enjoyment: It is impossible to relish your food if you eat in a rush. I am a big believer of the need to “savor your food, not swallow it.”
- Reduced stress: Eating slowly is a mindfulness exercise. It encourages you to enjoy the moment rather than worrying about your next activity.
- Better hydration: Proper hydration is very important for the muscles in your body be energized. Your kidneys work more efficiently with better hydration. Water consumption also increases when you eat slowly.
For all these reasons, I wish you have a pleasant, slow-eating dining experience. Bon appetit!
For more by this author on SEEMA, check out Kimi Verma on Why It Is Much Harder For Women to Lose Weight
