Fletcherizing (chew, chew, chew)

[willowcat 93]

Thought I would just share something that has really helped me lately. I'd been having lots of trouble being "too tight", and had two partial unfills--still with problems. I realize now that I'm a gulper when it comes to eating. I thought that I was chewing enough (compared to my old ways, I was, but not enough for the band). Then, I was reading a book called Mindful Eating (which I would highly recommend by the way), and the author talked about "Fletcherizing' as a way to be mindful of the food in your mouth. Fletcher lived at the turn of the century (1900) and lost 40 pounds by chewing each mouthful 32 times (I found out later on the internet that he also spit out his food before eating it--he erroneously thought you could get enough "micro nutrients" just from the well-chewed food being in your mouth--no wonder he lost weight--he didn't actually eat!), BUT I tried counting my chews (and swallowing!) and found out that if I did indeed chew each mouthful at least 30 times, that I was no longer getting stuck. I was also able to savor the taste and textures of my food; I was able to dramatically lengthen my meal times; I was able to actually eat less and feel fuller and more satisfied! So "count me in" as a counter! For me, it's given me something tangible to help me follow the band rules of "chew, chew, chew, and chew some more). Also, I'm not afraid of losing my band anymore--whew!

[Bella Luna 1]

Thanks for the tip. I think I'll try to Fletcherize.

[elcee 3,341]

I saw something about this technique on a UK TV program called Supersizers go. When you watch how they did it it was pretty gross. Most foods you couldn't possibly chew that many times as they would dissolve before then. meats it could possibly work. I remember as a kid my mother would tell me to chew 30 times so I didn't choke.

If it works for you great but I couldn't imagine actually counting each chew. Man that would be laborious!I also find that if I chew that many times my food loses its labour, instead of appreciating the taste I get jawache! I think if you simply concentrate on chewing well that should be sufficient.

[Jenishrinks 0]

I will look for the book. I know I still eat too fast and also do better when remembering to chew. Thank you!

[phatgirl 2011 1]

I am to be banded on May 23 and I will be practicing the Fletcherize method. Great idea. and book.