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The human body stockpiles energy by consuming, digesting, and absorbing foods rich in carbohydrates and protein. In a recent panel discussion at the 2013 Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) Annual Meeting & Food Expo® , however, it was pointed out that more than consumption, chewing behaviors determine the level of energy the body retains.
“Particle size has bio-accessibility of the energy of the food that is being consumed,” explained Dr. Richard Mattes, professor of foods and nutrition at Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind. “The more you chew, the less is lost and more is retained in the body.”
Chewing habits differ from one person to another. Modifying them could be challenging. But if nutrition is taken into consideration, people might as well follow eating behaviors prescribed by science as optimal ways to tease out nutrients from food.
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During the conference, Mattes shared a study of almonds chewed with different frequencies: 10 times, 25 times, and 40 times. The chewers’ fecal fat and the energy loss equivalent to the number of chews were then measured. The findings suggest that with fewer chews, the larger particles are eliminated by the body. With more chews, the smaller particles are absorbed into the system.
“If the goal is to include food that is enjoyable and contribute protein, a whole almond is probably the way you want to go,” said Mattes. “If you’re interested in maximizing Vitamin E intake, chopped almonds, almond butter, or almond oil may be a better choice.”
In addition to almonds, mixed fibers from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains were recommended by the panel as excellent high-energy sources.
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Dr. Robert Pastore studies biochemistry, nutrigenomics, and all aspects of human nutrition. Visit this website for more information on his specializations.
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