Chewing

Definition

Chewing is the process of breaking down food in the mouth through the action of teeth, tongue, and jaw muscles. This mechanical digestion increases the surface area of food, aiding in nutrient absorption and digestion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chewing initiates the digestive process and enhances nutrient bioavailability.
2. Proper chewing can impact neurological health by influencing nutrient intake and gut-brain interactions.
3. Impaired chewing due to neurological illnesses can lead to malnutrition and weight loss.
4. Chewing stimulates saliva production, which contains enzymes that begin carbohydrate digestion.
5. Assessment of chewing function is crucial for managing dietary needs in patients with chronic neurological conditions.

Review Questions

• How does impaired chewing affect nutritional status in patients with chronic neurological illnesses?
• What role does saliva play during the chewing process?
• Why is it important to assess chewing function in patients with neurological conditions?

Related terms

Mastication: The act of grinding or crushing food with teeth as part of the digestive process.

Salivary Enzymes: Biological catalysts found in saliva that initiate the breakdown of carbohydrates during chewing.

Dysphagia: Difficulty or discomfort in swallowing, often associated with impaired chewing and neurological disorders.