In today’s post, our dentist in Oak Park, IL, wants to share an important connection between chewing and obesity. That’s right – how well you chew is directly linked to nutrient absorption and weight control.
Many people do not realize that chewing plays a big role in digestion, weight, and overall health. That’s why keeping your teeth and gums in optimal condition is so important. So, keep your smile in tip-top shape at Town and Country Dental of Oak Park, IL. Call Dr. Thomas Wegner at (708) 383-0330 for comprehensive care now!
If you want to improve your health, understanding how chewing affects your body is a great place to start. So, let’s dive in as our dentist in Oak Park, IL, explains how chewing and obesity are linked.
How Chewing Affects Digestion
Chewing kicks off the digestive process by breaking food into smaller pieces. This helps your stomach digest and absorb food more easily.
Our dentist in Oak Park, IL, explains that chewing well also helps release saliva, which contains specialized enzymes that begin breaking down food before it even reaches your stomach.
When you do not chew enough, your stomach has to work harder. This can lead to poor digestion, bloating, and weight gain.
The Link Between Chewing and Obesity
Chewing slowly and thoroughly can help with weight control. Our dentist in Oak Park, IL, shares these reasons why:
You Eat Less
When you chew slowly, your brain gets more time to realize you are full, which can take approximately 20 minutes. This prevents overeating.
Improves Digestion
Well-chewed food is easier for your stomach to process, helping your body absorb nutrients better.
Increased Calorie Burning
Studies show that chewing more burns a few extra calories and boosts metabolism.
Reduces Cravings
Slow chewing helps you enjoy food more, so you may feel satisfied with less.
Do Overweight People Chew Differently?
Our dentist in Oak Park, IL, explains that some research suggests overweight people tend to chew their food less. They may take bigger bites and swallow quickly. This can lead to eating too much before the brain signals that they are full.
On the other hand, people who chew more tend to eat less and maintain a healthy weight.
How to Improve Your Chewing Habits
The good news is that you can improve your chewing habits with simple changes! Our dentist in Oak Park, IL, suggests the following tips:
- Take smaller bites.
- Chew each bite 20 to 30 times.
- Eat slowly.
- Avoid watching TV or playing on your phone while eating.
- Drink water between bites.
- Address dental damage, tooth loss, and misaligned teeth for better chewing ability.
How a Dentist in Oak Park, IL, Can Help
Our dentist in Oak Park, IL, can check if your teeth and jaw are affecting how you chew. Issues like missing teeth, misaligned bites, or jaw pain can make chewing harder. Fixing these problems can help you eat more slowly and improve digestion.
So, if your smile needs some TLC, contact Town and Country Dental of Oak Park, IL, today! Reach Dr. Thomas Wegner here, or call (708) 383-0330 to coordinate your care now.