Chewing 101 - Digestion Begins in Your Mouth

Did you know that HOW you chew your food can completely change your digestion?

The amount of chewing you do before swallowing determines how much work the rest of your digestive system has to do.

Rushing through meals and swallowing barely-chewed food forces your stomach and intestines to compensate — often leading to bloating, gas, and discomfort that people mistakenly blame on the foods themselves.

𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐞’𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐬𝐨 𝐦𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐝𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

 1. Saliva starts digestion immediately

Digestion actually begins in your mouth! Saliva contains the enzyme amylase, which starts breaking down carbohydrates right away. But it only works if food stays in your mouth long enough. When we rush, starches arrive in the stomach poorly digested, often leading to fermentation and gas later on.

 2. Smaller particles = easier digestion

Digestive enzymes can only work on the surface of food. The more thoroughly you chew, the more surface area your stomach acid and enzymes can access. Large chunks of food are harder to break down and may pass into the intestines partially digested — feeding bacteria that contribute to bloating and discomfort.

 3. Chewing tells your stomach to get ready

Taking your time while eating signals your body to produce stomach acid and digestive enzymes. Eating too fast can interfere with this natural preparation process. Sometimes the issue isn’t the food — it’s simply that the body didn’t have enough time to prepare properly.

 4. Slowing down supports fullness & portion control

Your fullness hormones need about 20 minutes to register. If you finish eating in 5–7 minutes, it’s easy to overeat before your body realizes it’s satisfied. Chewing thoroughly naturally slows meals down and helps you feel more balanced and satisfied.

 5. Extra digestive support can help

Along with slowing down and chewing well, I also love supporting digestion with Shaklee Digestive Enzymes  They help your body break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates more efficiently and can be especially supportive when meals are larger, heavier, or eaten on the go.

Sometimes the simplest habits create the biggest transformations.

Slow down. Breathe. Chew your food. Your digestive system will thank you!

Choose to chew well!