Chewing food tightly has various health effects. Experts recommend chewing at least 30 times at a time. Learn why you should chew slowly and for a long time.
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Promoting digestion and prevent overeating
A typical effect of chewing food slowly and for a long time is the promotion of digestion. The longer you chew food, the higher the saliva secretion, and the smaller the food breaks. The amylase enzyme in saliva is a component that helps digestion and breaks down fat. Since it is a weak alkali component, it is also effective in preventing gastritis and gastric ulcers due to excessive secretion of gastric acid. Amylase quickly decomposes starch and turns it into sugar, and when the blood sugar concentration reaches a certain level, the satiety center of the brain is stimulated. At this time, leptin, a hormone that suppresses appetite, is secreted to prevent overeating.
Prevention of dementia
Repeated chewing of food is effective in preventing dementia prevention. According to a study by Kyushu University in Japan, the elderly who have poor dental conditions and poor chewing have an 81% higher risk of developing dementia than the elderly who do not. This is because blood flow to the brain increases when chewing, which facilitates blood circulation. In addition, the more food you chew, the more parotin, an anti-aging hormone, is secreted from the under ear glands. Parotin prevents brain aging and reduces the risk of dementia by increasing the elasticity of blood vessels.
Activation of brain function
The longer you chew, the more active your brain becomes. According to a study by Cardiff University in the UK, people who chewed gum had higher judgment and memory than those who did not. Likewise, parotin ingredients facilitate blood flow to the brain and activate white blood cell function to increase blood vessel health. At this time, a substance called NGF (neurogrowth factor) secreted together activates the brain by helping repair and grow damaged nerve cells.
Dental care
To enjoy various health effects through such well-chewing activities, dental care is essential. You should follow the correct method of brushing your teeth and properly use oral hygiene supplements such as dental floss and interdental toothbrushes. It is recommended to have regular oral examinations and scaling every three to six months. Smooth saliva secretion is also important for chewing well. It is helpful to drink 1.5 to 2L of water normally and massage under your ears and chin lightly before eating.
Gum massage
You should pay attention to gum health as well as dental health. This is because when chewing food, the gums absorb the impact of the teeth. After brushing your teeth every day, wash your hands clean and massage your gums. Rub your index finger on your gums 10 times as if you are drawing a circle clockwise. Blood circulation to the gums is smooth, which is good for overall oral health. You have to rub all the way to the innermost corner of your gums to see the effect.
Writer: Yeyoung Jeon
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