Chewing and Digestion: The Most Underrated Wellness Habit

Khristina Maureen
May 20
3 min read

Updated: Jul 9

Woman eating salad while scrolling on her phone, mindless chewing habit.

Why Chewing Is Step One in Supporting Digestion (and You're Probably Rushing It)

Let’s talk about something totally unsexy but wildly underrated: chewing and digestion. It's a crucial step that many overlook.

Yes, that thing you do while half-scrolling Instagram, inhaling your lunch, and trying not to drip salad dressing on your laptop.

Here’s the deal: Chewing isn’t just about breaking down food; it’s where digestion officially starts. And if you're rushing through it, you’re skipping a crucial first step in supporting your gut, your energy, and yes, even your mood.

Your Mouth Is a Digestive Organ (Not Just a Smile Factory)

As a dental hygienist turned functional nutrition counselor, I must say: We seriously underestimate the mouth-body connection.

Chewing kicks off the entire digestive cascade.

It tells your body:

“Hey, food’s coming! Time to bring in the enzymes, fire up the stomach acid, and get the gut ready.”

If you rush it or, worse, barely chew, your stomach gets overwhelmed.

That can lead to:

Bloating: Caused by undigested food fermenting in the gut.
Undigested food in your stool indicates incomplete digestion.
Gas
Nutrient malabsorption
And yep… even skin issues, hormone drama, and energy crashes

Because chewing and digestion aren't just about the gut; they're part of a whole-body affair.

Why Chewing Matters for Digestion and Gut Health

Here's what the research says (aka: I'm not making this up):

Chewing thoroughly improves digestion by signaling stomach acid production and digestive enzyme release (Source )
Chewing increases saliva, which neutralizes acids, protects enamel, and prevents tooth decay (Source – BetterHealth)
Chewing even boosts blood flow to your brain (yes, your jaw is smarter than you thought) (Source – PubMed)
It can reduce stress, improve mood, and even curb your appetite (Source: PubMed)

It's pretty wild for something we do on autopilot, isn't it?

Healthy Teeth Make Chewing Possible

Here's where your teeth come in:

You need strong, functional teeth to chew properly.

Missing teeth, gum disease, and chronic dry mouth aren't just cosmetic issues. They directly impact your digestion, nutrient absorption, and health from the inside out.

So when I say oral health is foundational, I mean it. It's not just about cavities and cleanings, it's about your whole system working the way it's meant to.

What Can You Do to Improve Chewing and Digestion?

Slow down when you eat. Count to 15–20 chews per bite. (Yes, you'll feel weird. Do it anyway.)
Avoid distractions. Chewing requires attention. Multitasking steals it.
Support your oral health. Floss, remineralize, stay hydrated, and treat your mouth like the gateway it is.
Pay attention to symptoms. Cracked teeth, sore gums, and a tight jaw? They all affect how well you chew and digest.

Digestion begins way before your stomach gets involved.

Real Talk and Final Bite

If you're bloated, gassy, or dealing with mystery gut drama, and your diet should be working, start by looking up, not down.

Chew more. Chew better. Support your chewing and digestion.

Because healing your gut doesn't always require more supplements. Sometimes, it just requires slowing down and letting your body do what it was built to do.

-Khristina Maureen

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