Chewing Your Food Can Help You Absorb More Nutrients, Says An MD

It might surprise you that not only what you eat but also how you eat it can have a major impact on the nutritional yield. But that's exactly what psychiatrist Drew Ramsey, M.D., shared with co-founder and co-CEO Jason Wachob on the mbg podcast. He explained that the manner in which you chew affects the benefits you receive from your food. 

In addition to how much you chew, your mental state affects the amount of nutrients you receive from your food; when your mind is experiencing stress, for example, it can disrupt the communication between the brain and digestive system. This means that if you eat while experiencing negative feelings, you might absorb only 20% of your food's nutrients.

Ramsey offered a way to turn mealtime into an opportunity for mindfulness: "Really focus on being present at the table with those you love and with your food." Studies show that mindfulness not only increases well-being1 but can bolster your ability to support those around you2.

When it comes to nutrient absorption, how we eat can be just as influential as what we eat. Practicing mindfulness is one way to give your body the chance to slow down and fully experience mealtime, whether it be on your own or with those you love.