April 05th, 2017

Have you thought about how digestion actually begins in your mouth?
 
Most people only chew each mouthful about 5-10 times, resulting in food that isn’t broken down enough for our body to digest - placing strain on our stomach, pancreas and liver.

Each time we chew, we make the food particles smaller and coat it with more saliva. Saliva is essential because it:
- contains enzymes that begin breakdown of carbs,
- has antimicrobial properties to kill off bugs, and
- helps alkalize our food so that the stomach is signaled to start working.

It is recommended that we chew every mouthful of food until it becomes liquid, usually a minimum of 20-30 times.

When eating, we try to avoid distractions such as watching TV, playing a game, answering emails or reading so that we can sit and really focus on chewing – and enjoying - our food. Instead, beautify your eating space so that all your senses are being nourished and revitalized at the same time!

We can even create a “chew-a-thon” competition with family members to make it more fun. Your gut will love you for it!
 
Tomorrow I’ll share the best kept digestive secret… and it includes eating from the food group that the Canada Food Guide left out.
 
Ready for a gut tune-up now? Don’t forget to check out my new Guts to Heal 7 Day Challenge, free for a limited time.