Does prolonged chewing reduce food intake? Fletcherism revisited

摘要: Horace Fletcher (1849-1919) spread his doctrine to chew each mouthful thoroughly in order prevent gaining weight. We sought test this idea by manipulating chewing instructions whilst using electromyography monitor behaviour. Comparing 35 with 10 chews per mouthful, we showed that higher counts reduced food intake despite increasing speed, and doubling meal duration for achieving a subjective reference point feeling 'comfortably full'. Although limited low sample size, our preliminary findings confirm Mr. Fletcher's doctrine, provide basis further research area. Outcomes implications are discussed.