We’re all busy and unfortunately most of us usually inhale our meals rather than sit down and properly chew our food.  I know I don’t always make the time I should to sit my butt down and thoroughly chew my food. A lot of my meals are consumed on the run, at my desk, or (yikes) in my car! A recent study has proven that eating too quickly can actually lead to weight gain.

A study conducted by the University of Rhode Island examined the eating habits of 30 average-weight women during lunchtime. The participants were studied during two different lunch-time meals. Each meal consisted of a large plate of pasta with tomato sauce and parmesan cheese. At the first meal the women were told to eat as quickly as they could and at the second meal they were instructed to consume their meal slowly. At the completion of the study it was found the women consumed 67 more calories at the meal they were instructed to eat quicker than the slower meal.

This shows that slowing down not only makes eating a more enjoyable experience but it can also help you watch your portion sizes. To accomplish this, try to put your spoon or fork down between each bite and thoroughly chew your food before shoving more food into your mouth.

When you’re eating out at a restaurant or enjoying a meal with others don’t try to keep up to their eating speed. Eating is not a race, but if it were those who were slow and steady would win.

If you’re eating by yourself it’s important to actually sit down at the table and enjoy your meal. There are so many nights that I’ll quickly shovel down my food or mindlessly eat in front of the television. Turn off the TV and focus on enjoying your food to satisfy your hunger. It takes your brain about 15-20 to register that it’s full, so give your stomach time to talk to your brain before getting up for a second serving.