Hi everyone! I’ve been trying something simple lately that’s made a huge difference for my stubborn bloating. I realized I was practically inhaling my meals without thinking!
Now, I make it a point to chew every bite at least 20 times. It sounds tedious, but it really slows me down and lets my stomach keep up.
Another trick I’ve added is putting my fork down between bites to ensure I’m not rushing. It’s been a total game changer for my digestion after dinner. Anyone else tried this?
I’ve heard this helps! I definitely need to try it, I’m a fast eater.
My grandmother always used to say ‘drink your food and chew your water.’ Basically means chew until it’s liquid. It really does work for the gas!
20 times seems like a lot. Doesn’t the food get cold while you’re waiting?
It definitely helps. Digestion starts in the mouth with saliva enzymes. If you skip that step, your stomach has to work double time. I started doing this last year and my heartburn almost vanished.
Putting the fork down is the hardest part for me! I’m always ready for the next bite before I’m done with the first.
I try to count, but I always lose track by ten. Maybe I’ll try the fork trick instead. That seems more manageable for my patience levels.
Guilty of rushing! I eat like someone is going to steal my plate. No wonder I feel like a balloon after dinner.
I read somewhere that it takes 20 minutes for your brain to realize you’re full. Slowing down the chewing definitely hits that window better. I feel less stuffed after lunch now.
This was the first thing my nutritionist told me to change. I thought she was joking, but after a week of conscious chewing, the heavy feeling I used to get after steak or heavy meals totally went away. It’s a free ‘supplement’ if you think about it! Just takes a little discipline to break the old habit of rushing through life.
Great tip, Martha. Simple but effective. I’m going to start tonight.
I combine this with a glass of room temp water before I sit down. The combination of the two really keeps things moving the next morning. It’s all about the routine.
I tried this today at lunch. My jaw actually got tired! I guess I’m out of shape lol.
Keep it up! It becomes second nature after a while and you don’t even have to count anymore.
I’ve noticed that when I chew more, I actually taste the food better too. You find nuances in the flavors you miss when you’re just gulping it down. Win-win for the gut and the palate.