Chewing your smoothies? Aren't smoothies meant to be smooth? Well yes, they are. But adding some texture to your smoothies can boost their staying power and nutrition. But you don't just have to take our word for it: Science agrees!
The Science Of Sipping vs Chewing
Did you know that digestion doesn't just take place in your gut? It actually starts in your mouth. When your teeth chew food, glands in your mouth release saliva, which contains a digestive enzyme that helps break down carbohydrates before they even reach your stomach.
This also sends a chemical response to your brain letting it know that you've eaten food, sending off a cascade of signals that ultimately result in you feeling a fullness and satisfaction level from your food.
The earlier and longer you chew, the faster you experience a decrease in hunger and a stronger feeling of fullness and satisfaction from your meals.
When it comes to soft foods that don't require much chewing (think smoothies and other drinks, mashed potatoes, applesauce, ice creams, and custards), slowing down the pace of their intake through chewing or slower sipping/eating is a proven way to reduce overall food intake and limit weight gain.
This means, when you drink a nutrient-rich smoothie that has some texture requiring you to do a little chewing, then you're more likely to feel full and satiated and less likely to reach for another meal just a short time after downing it.
The Best Smoothie Topper In Town
When it comes to adding texture to your smoothie, you could use a granola (like Struesli) or other cereal, some chopped nuts, seeds, nut butter, or fresh fruit. But not all toppers are created equally. Opt for one that will keep your healthy smoothie ... healthy!
Here's why Struesli makes these best smoothie topper around:
- Struesli doesn't contain any added sugars or sweeteners, so you're not giving your smoothie any added sugars when you sprinkle it on top
- It's high in prebiotic fiber, which helps increase satisfaction in addition to the chewing factor stated above
- It contains plant-based protein and a good ratio of healthy fats, which gives your produce-rich smoothie a more well-rounded macronutrient profile, plus a wider variety of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
5 Smoothies To Make With A Struesli Topper
Try one of these smoothies that each features a topping of Struesli. Drink it with an extra wide reusable straw or use a spoon to get those first few bites of Struesli goodness off the top, which prompt that important chewing step.
- Matcha Green Smoothie
- Pick-Me-Up Smoothie
- Beauty Smoothie
- Wake-Me-Up Smoothie
- Electrolyte Thirst-Quenching Smoothie
Written by Jessie Shafer, RD
May 31, 2024
