13 "Gut-Wrecking" Habits to Ditch for Better Digestive Wellness Now

2. Eating Too Fast

Fast eating may save time, but it’s a disaster for digestion. When you inhale your food without chewing thoroughly, your body misses key preparatory steps: saliva enzymes don’t get a chance to break down starches, and your stomach receives large chunks of food it’s not ready for. This overload leads to gas, bloating, acid reflux, and slower digestion. You also swallow excess air, which compounds the discomfort. More importantly, rushing through meals prevents your brain from registering fullness, making overeating more likely. Mindful eating—sitting down, chewing slowly, and savoring your food—activates your “rest and digest” system and gives your gut the signal to do its job well.