At VIVA Wellness, we wholeheartedly believe in nurturing the connection between integrative and holistic services and mindful eating. As a wellness clinic offering weight loss support, nutritional counseling, colon hydrotherapy, and gut health functional medicine, we recognize the simple yet profound impact that mindful chewing can have on digestion and overall well-being. Explore the reasons why chewing is a vital practice we encourage all our clients to embrace.
Improved Nutrient Absorption
Chewing serves as the crucial first step in the digestion process. As we chew our food, enzymes in our saliva begin breaking down carbohydrates, setting the stage for efficient nutrient absorption in the small intestine. By thoroughly chewing our food, enzymes are able to access more nutrients and enhance their bioavailability. Then, as food enters the stomach, it triggers the release of gastric juices, which further break down the food for absorption. This means that our bodies can extract more essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, supporting not only weight loss goals but also overall health and vitality.
Enhanced Satiety and Weight Management
Mindful chewing is a powerful tool for weight management. By taking the time to chew our food slowly and thoroughly, we allow our bodies to register feelings of fullness more accurately. This prevents overeating and encourages a deeper connection to our body’s hunger and satiety cues. As a result, clients at VIVA Wellness often experience improved portion control, reduced mindless snacking, and a healthier relationship with food, all supportive of their relationship to food over the course of their weight change journeys.
Easing the Burden on the Digestive System
Our Team (specifically Colon Hydrotherapists, Gut Health and Functional Medicine Experts) understand the significance of supporting a well-balanced digestive system. Mindful chewing eases the burden on the entire digestive tract by breaking down food into smaller, more manageable pieces. This makes it easier for the stomach and intestines to process and absorb nutrients effectively, reducing the likelihood of discomfort, bloating, and digestive disturbances.
Fostering Mindful Eating Practices
Mindful chewing extends beyond physical benefits; it also nurtures a deeper connection to the act of eating itself. Our team encourages clients to savor their meals and engage their senses in the eating process. Mindful eating promotes a greater appreciation for food, the enjoyment of flavors and textures, and a more conscious awareness of hunger and satisfaction levels.
Supporting Colon Hydrotherapy and Gut Health
By properly chewing our food, we ensure that it reaches the colon in a more broken down and digestible form. Proper chewing aids in the fermentation process of fibrous foods, which occurs in the large intestine. This fermentation produces short-chain fatty acids, beneficial compounds that nourish the cells of the colon and support a healthy gut microbiome. This not only optimizes nutrient absorption but also enhances the effectiveness of colon hydrotherapy sessions. A healthier, well-functioning gut sets the stage for a successful colon hydrotherapy experience, promoting detoxification, and supporting gut health and overall well-being.
Embrace Mindful Chewing for Holistic Wellness 
As you embark on your journey towards holistic well-being and/or weight management at VIVA Wellness, remember that something as simple as mindful chewing can hold one of the keys to profound transformation. By savoring each bite, nourishing your body with intention, and supporting your digestive system, you are empowering yourself to achieve optimal health, vitality, and a more balanced relationship with food. Mindful chewing is a practice that transcends the plate, cultivating a deeper connection to your body, mind, and overall well-being.
NOTE: If slowing down and being mindful with your food is challenging, and you also are seeking to explore weight change, there are many questions that our Weight Loss Specialists would likely be able to guide you through that relate to this specific act. There is so much that goes into how you arrived at the way and pace with which you eat, and without shame or judgment, our team is here to unravel any stories that may need some support. Book your consultation now with our team of Weight Loss NPs.
*Disclaimer: We recommend consulting with a qualified healthcare professional at VIVA Wellness to create a personalized plan based on your specific needs and goals.*
