How to Slow Hell While You Eat (and Why You Should)
Have you ever sat back in your chair after dining with a friend and only to realize that his lunch has just begun? And what should you do while they are eating at the so-called “normal” pace – twirl your fingers?
I understand. Americans love to celebrate our mobile and tireless lifestyle. Have you taken the time to fully appreciate your food? This sounds like European nonsense to me. (Jokingly). (But please don’t try to convince me to have dinner at 10:00 pm).
As I myself diagnosed myself as “fast eating”, I have a variety of reasons why I want to slow down hell, none of which are necessarily motivated by weight loss. A number of sources such as Healthline and Psychology Today, argue that if you spend time on the meal, it can improve your digestion, help you to better absorb nutrients and generally increase the pleasure of eating.
Aside from the health benefits, my desire to slow down while eating is due to social reasons. When I walk up to get some air between each bite, I find that I can participate more in the conversation (without introducing my friends to a mouthful of hummus). Likewise, giving up the fierce race for lunch also means I’m focused on being a more active listener while we eat. Food unites us; I want to enjoy both what is on my plate and the people with whom I communicate.
So, if you also want to eat more slowly, here are some ways to relax.
Focus on chewing
It sounds obvious, but fast chewing is the main culprit in fast food. While I find the common advice that every bite is too strict (and even unhealthy), you can still deliberately define your overall chewing speed. My top tip is to check if you are actually swallowing each bite before moving on to the next.
Put the dishes
Put down your fork and do something with your hands several times while eating. Even if it’s just a moment, it will help you devote more time to the bite you are currently on.
Drink water
Moisturizing is good! And this is another strategy to make sure you have at least a little break between pieces.
Turn off your screens
Sometimes I look up from the phone and find that my meal is long over, although I hardly remember a single bite. This is the power of TikTok. Try to avoid electronic devices such as TVs and smartphones while eating. You can even try … practice mindful eating.
Practice mindful eating
Stay focused on food and use the time to practice mindfulness . Simply identifying intent at the start of a meal can help you start eating more slowly.
Listen to slow music
Are you saying you want speed-eating while Adele pours out her heart? Get in control.
Avoid extreme hunger
If you are hungry, this is natural. The science of satiety is tricky, but a good strategy to avoid severe hunger is to focus on food that makes you full and happy in general.