Tip #3 of 13 Tips to A Healthier Me

Remember to chew your food. There can be many reasons to overeating and not chewing properly is one of them.

Some people just don't feel full after a meal, they may crave something sweet or want a second helping in order to feel satiated (the feeling of fullness that stops the hunger that causes you to eat). If your cells aren't getting the nutrients they need they are going to scream out for more. One of the reasons that your cells won't get proper nutrients is because your body isn't digesting and absorbing nutrients efficiently. Chewing is the first stage of digestion (well actually sight and smell are). As you chew your mouth releases enzymes that break down carbohydrates. Breaking down carbohydrates into sugars is an important factor in making you feel satisfied and satiated. Glucose (sugar) is the brains primary fuel and the sooner the brain is happy the better you will feel and the less you will want to eat.

So start chewing your food, take time to eat and you will fill up quicker. Allow yourself 15 minutes before going for seconds, your body needs this time to digest and feel full.