If you are one of the many with a hectic life schedule taking the time to stop and eat mindfully may not seem that important. The process of eating mindfully and taking the time to chew your food properly is important for your overall health and the health of your gut.

When you sit and eat mindfully you are more likely to eat slower and to chew your food properly. It takes time for your body to process fullness and eating at a slower rate can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight. When you chew your food properly your body can use more of the nutrients in your food. Allow the food in your mouth to lose its texture before swallowing.

3 strategies for eating mindfully to support a healthy gut.

Don’t eat in front of the tv, computer or with your phone. This means sitting down and having a little relationship with your meal or snack. Take the time to enjoy what your food looks and smells like.  If you are distracted you miss this amazing experience of eating.

Before you eat, ask yourself if you are hungry or are you bored or emotional eating? This includes stress eating or even using food as a thank you. Food has a purpose in celebrations but if this is every time you get out of bed in the morning it will have consequences. Seeking appropriate professional support to provide the tools to swap the outcome (eating) with the emotion is the best way forward and awareness is the first step forward.

Be patient. It is not easy to make a change, and being successful in mindful eating on some occasions is a success. Keep trying and over time you will develop a greater enjoyment and appreciation of eating and an understanding of hunger and satiety.

Take home message:

Eating mindfully is like building any muscle in your body and the process take practice and patience. The many health benefits you will reap, including a healthy gut, are well worth the time.