Mindful eating promotes digestion and nutrient absorption from "summary" of Deep Nutrition by Catherine Shanahan, M.D.
When we eat mindfully, we are giving our bodies the opportunity to fully engage in the process of digestion. This means that we are paying close attention to our food as we eat, savoring each bite and truly being present in the moment. By doing so, we allow our bodies to prepare for digestion by releasing the necessary enzymes and hormones to break down the food efficiently. When we eat mindlessly, on the other hand, we are more likely to rush through our meals, not fully chewing our food and not paying attention to the signals our body is sending us. This can lead to poor digestion and nutrient absorption, as our bodies are not given the chance to properly process the food we are consuming. By being mindful, we can also avoid overeating and nutrient deficiencies. When we are present while we eat, we are more in tune with our hunger and fullness cues, allowing us to stop eating when we are satisfied. This can prevent us from consuming excess calories and nutrients that our bodies do not need. Furthermore, mindful eating can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. When we are focused on our food and the act of eating, we are less likely to be distracted by external stressors. This can lead to better digestion and nutrient absorption, as stress has been shown to negatively impact these processes.- Practicing mindful eating can have a significant impact on digestion and nutrient absorption. By being fully present while we eat, we give our bodies the best chance to break down and absorb the nutrients we need to thrive. This simple practice can lead to improved overall health and well-being in the long run.
