Importance of Chewing

We all have heard that we should chew our food properly - despite knowing in theory that this is a good practice, I have never really paid attention to it - so much so that I basically inhale my food. and add to this the TV viewing that happens during dinnertime, I am basically unaware of what I am putting in my mouth. I found this article on the real reasons chewing our food is good for us:

Chewing food thoroughly accomplishes many things:

1. It cleans your food before it hits your stomach since saliva is antibacterial. Certain food-borne bacteria can be killed just from chewing! 
2. It signals to the digestive system that food is coming, and the digestive system in turn starts producing digestive acids that help the body absorb nutrition.
3. Additionally, the enzymes in saliva play an important role in breaking down food and preparing it to travel through your digestive track.
4. You will get the optimal amount of nutrition and place the least amount of strain on your digestive system if you chew your food until it's completely liquid - the longer the better. 
5. On the flip side, not adequately chewing food puts a strain on the esophagus/the entire digestive system and can cause gas, bloating, sluggishness, loss of energy, stomach aches, cramps, diarrhea. yikes, right?!  
6.  Chewing stimulates the endocrine system, keeping your hormones in balance for a happier, younger-looking you. In particular, the parotid glands just under your cheekbones release a cell-rejuvenating substance, which gives you that youthful glow.
7. Added bonus: eating slowly and thoroughly chewing food makes you appreciate it more, gives your stomach time to signal your brain that it's full and prevents over eating!
8.  Scientists have also discovered that munching is magnificent for the memory. It may help keep dementia in the elderly at bay. It seems that the more you chew, the more short-term memory cells you develop. When people get older, they lose their teeth and start eating mushy foods. The short-term memory may be compromised because of this simple change in diet and behavior. Isn’t that amazing?

so CHEW CHEW CHEW. Chew until you think you can't chew anymore, and then chew some more - the recommended amount is 30 times per bite. I am slowly working at it. Eating my food slowly so as to thoroughly ennjoy the flavor and texture of each bite.