Episode 450: Food Hardness and Mandible Activation

How much thought have you given to the importance of a good chew? While this may sound like a random topic, the simple act of chewing—and making sure the diet includes tough and crunchy foods—has a profound impact on our health. From digestion and metabolism to oral health, facial development, and even the way we breathe, chewing plays a foundational role. In this episode, we explore how modern diets of ultra-processed, soft foods have contributed to metabolic dysfunction, altered jaw structure, and impaired breathing patterns that can disrupt sleep and brain function. We also dive into the surprising neurological benefits of chewing, including its role in satiety, memory, and mental health. Chewing activates the vagus nerve and stimulates the release of cholecystokinin, a hormone that supports memory, learning, and appetite regulation. It also reduces stress responses, boosting activity in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Research even suggests that soft diets can decrease synaptic density and hippocampal cell count—key factors in cognitive performance. This episode will have you reaching for raw carrots, slow-roasted stew meat, and other chewy, nutrient-dense foods while rethinking how each meal you serve your family can support both body and brain through the power of a good chew. Also in this episode:  Preorder Naturally Nourished Kids  Episode 370 Biological Dentistry with Dr. Joan Sefcik How the jaw works and how it has evolved The Jaw Epidemic: Recognition, Origins, Cures, and Prevention Cognitive development and jaw function Occlusion and brain function: mastication as a prevention of cognitive dysfunction  Foods to provide for kids  Nutrient absorption and chewing Jawline exercises and mewing The impact of chewing and hard foods on oral and dental health The Dental Diet | Dr Steven Lin Episode 239 Baby Led Weaning Speech and tongue function Why coconut oil pulling is a game-changer Remineralizing gum Larine   This episode is sponsored by:  This episode is sponsored by Carnivore Snax, a delicious snack combining just 2 ingredients: meat and Redmond Real Salt! These melt-in-your-mouth meat pastries are like no other dehydrated meat product or jerky on the market. We love that Carnivore Snax are a pro-America brand who sources from US farmers practicing regenerative agriculture and are verified by the Savory Institute confirming their carbon sequestering status. Check out the ribeye, pork loin, brisket and leg of lamb for just a few of our favorites! Use code NNPODCAST to save 15% off your order and get free shipping on $125 or more at carnivoresnax.com.