You Haven’t Eaten if You Haven’t Chewed: A Deeper Look at Conscious Eating

In our fast-paced world, we often find ourselves eating on the go, multi-tasking during meals, or simply rushing through our food without giving much thought to the process. However, as Dr. Mark Hyman and Dr. Peter Attia would agree, true nourishment goes beyond the simple act of consuming food. If you haven’t chewed your food properly, you haven’t truly eaten. This perspective not only emphasizes the importance of mindful eating but also challenges harmful societal norms around food and body image.

 

The Importance of Chewing

Chewing is the first step in the digestive process, and its importance cannot be overstated. Dr. Hyman, a renowned functional medicine physician, advocates for mindful eating as a cornerstone of good health. When we chew our food thoroughly, we break it down into smaller, more manageable pieces, which makes it easier for our stomachs to process and absorb nutrients. Chewing also signals the production of digestive enzymes, setting the stage for optimal digestion.

Dr. Attia is a nutritionist who aligns with Dr. Hyman’s principles; he emphasizes that chewing not only aids in digestion but also enhances the sensory experience of eating. When we chew slowly and mindfully, we savor each bite, appreciating the flavors, textures, and aromas of our food. This practice can transform our relationship with food, turning meals into moments of gratitude and joy rather than mere routines.

 

Life is Not About “Nothing Tastes Better Than Skinny”

The toxic mantra “nothing tastes better than skinny” has permeated our culture, promoting unhealthy relationships with food and body image. Both Dr. Hyman and Dr. Attia strongly oppose this notion. Life should not revolve around restrictive diets and the pursuit of an unrealistic body ideal. Instead, they advocate for a balanced approach to eating that prioritizes nourishment, satisfaction, and well-being.

Focusing on being “skinny” often leads to disordered eating habits, nutrient deficiencies, and mental health issues. Dr. Hyman encourages people to shift their focus from weight loss to overall health. By eating nutrient-dense, whole foods and practicing mindful eating, we can achieve a healthy body that functions optimally without succumbing to the pressures of societal beauty standards.

 

Embracing Mindful Eating

Mindful eating is about being present and fully engaged with our food. It involves:

1. Listening to Your Body: Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues. Eat when you are hungry, and stop when you are satisfied.

2. Engaging Your Senses: Notice the colors, smells, textures, and flavors of your food. Take the time to enjoy each bite.

3. Chewing Thoroughly: As emphasized earlier, chew your food well to aid digestion and enhance the eating experience.

4. Avoiding Distractions: Eat without distractions like TV, phones, or work. Focus solely on your meal and the company you are with.

5. Expressing Gratitude: Take a moment to appreciate the food you are eating and the effort that went into preparing it.

 

Building a Healthy Relationship with Food

Dr. Hyman and Dr. Attia advocate for a holistic approach to nutrition that includes not just what we eat, but how we eat. By practicing mindful eating and rejecting harmful societal messages about body image, we can build a healthier relationship

with food. This approach fosters a sense of balance and well-being, allowing us to nourish our bodies and minds.

In conclusion, remember that if you haven’t chewed, you haven’t truly eaten. Embrace the practice of mindful eating, prioritize nourishment over societal pressures, and transform your meals into moments of mindfulness and gratitude. Your body and mind will thank you for it.

Health & happiness,

Charlene