Guest post contributed by Kara Masterson
In our fast-paced society, it seems like the faster that we can consume food, the better. Millions of Americans rush to fast food restaurants on their way home from work in order to grab something that can be put in their hands and scoffed down in under a half hour. However, some of the most special foods are the ones that take the time to enjoy. Plus, as it turns out, it’s much healthier for our bodies to consume food slowly in order to allow our digestive systems to build up enzymes that will break it down adequately. Here are some of our favorite foods that are meant to be savored, not inhaled.
Pasta
Pasta has been served in Italy for centuries and is meant to be enjoyed slowly with the ones that you love. The act of cutting each piece of pasta is as ritualistic as it is comforting. When it comes to traditional Italian cuisine, it’s as much about the company with whom you are surrounded as it is about the tastes and textures of the culinary delights before you. Even today, Italians take a break from their busy schedules to slowly enjoy bowls of pasta together.
Coffee
Millions of Americans depend on their cup of coffee first thing in the morning. This centuries-old beverage provides you with the physical and mental boost that you need to get your day started off right. However, coffee should be sipped slowly, not guzzled down. Most importantly, coffee should be enjoyed. To drink coffee the right way, start off with a good quality coffee like that offered by places like 11th Street Coffee. Sip it slowly and allow it to gradually do its magic while you wake up in the morning.
Ice Cream
Ice cream is one of those foods that you have to take time to enjoy because if you don’t, you will regret it. Eating ice cream too quickly can create a headache called “brain freeze” which can become unbearable. However, this common consequence is a blessing in disguise. Ice cream should be savored because it’s a special treat that we’ve all been enjoying since we were kids. When you have a bowl of ice cream in front of you, all the craziness of the world pauses for a few minutes.
Spicy Foods
Like ice cream, most of us have no choice but to eat spicy foods slowly. Hot peppers put the body into a temporary state of panic, resulting in intense sweat and a burning sensation in our mouths. However, for some reason, we love every minute of it.
If you’re the type of person who eats your meals way too fast, take some time out to indulge in these four unique treats that you can savor slowly. That way you can better enjoy your meal and help your digestive system. This also can provide you with a great opportunity to better enjoy the company of the people you are with.
