Which dietary practice may contribute to poor digestion?

Eating on the run typically involves consuming food quickly without paying much attention to the experience of eating itself. This practice can lead to poor digestion for several reasons. When individuals eat hurriedly, they are more likely to swallow larger pieces of food and may not chew their food thoroughly. This can hinder the breakdown of food in the mouth, leading to larger particles entering the digestive system, which can be harder for the stomach to process.

Additionally, eating on the run often occurs in a stressful environment or state of mind. Stress can negatively impact digestion by diverting blood flow away from the digestive organs and disrupting the balance of hormones involved in the digestive process. This may result in issues like bloating, indigestion, or discomfort.

In contrast, practices such as eating in a relaxed mode, mindful breathing, and focusing on meals promote a calm and attentive eating environment, which can enhance digestion by encouraging thorough chewing and a more gradual intake of food. These approaches help activate the body's digestive response, leading to better nutrient absorption and overall digestive health.