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Remember the Simon & Garfunkel song: “Slow down you move too fast” (The 59th Street Bridge Song: Feelin’ Groovy)? Well, I found out recently that like most of us I eat too fast!
Recently when I suffered from digestive issues, I requested testing from my doctor. One test came back with evidence that my food was not getting digested fully. Yes, I ate too fast! I know this. And, it’s one of my habits I work on day to day.
Have you ever heard: “Wow, you ate that fast!” “You really enjoyed that, huh?” And/or do you experience bloating, IBS and/or general digestive distress?
If so, you’re not alone! Americans are fast eaters because we glorify a fast-paced lifestyle. Eating lunch while distracted at your desk shows that you’re a ‘hard worker.’ Eating a granola bar while you’re on your way out the door in the morning proves that you’ve “got a lot on your plate”.
And, as a result, Americans live with a LOT of digestive issues. Overall annual expenditures for digestive disease care totaled more than $136 billion (Massachusetts Medical Society).
However, these habits are not internationally practiced, which means that studies have shown that people who take their time eating meals end up eating less, having better digestion, and feel fuller.
Today, how about practice eating a meal SLOWLY. One way to practice eating slowly is to make each meal a true experience. For example, set a place setting, turn off all technology, and talk about the food you’re eating. Set down your utensils between bites and savor what’s in front of you.
Does the concept of speaking while having a meal seem a bit foreign to you? If so, that’s okay! Try this tip: Out loud, after you have chewed and swallowed your food, comment on flavor profiles and explain how the meal was prepared, or how you think it was prepared (yes, you can talk to yourself!).
The trick here is that the more you use your mouth to speak between bites and sips, the less you can quickly shove down your food. Of course, speak up after you have chewed the food at least 20-40 times.
Remember — digestion starts in your mouth by chewing your food at least 20 times. If you skip this — you leave out a very important part of your digestion process — which can not only prevent you from losing weight, but could also cause harm your body. My test results gave me an eye opener to this!
Stay away from distractions like TV, phone apps, or books, and opt for something like the radio or a podcast instead. Or, better yet, silence.
EnJOY the process of transformation and proper digestion!
Do you suffer from digestive issues. Let’s chat and elevate your health to a higher level — so you lose digestive challenges that can lead to serious health issues and instead you feel great and live your most empowered, strong and vibrant life.
And, join the community for more fun and wellness.
xo,
Christine Quinn/Badass Women Optimal Healthy Living