Chewing and spitting out food, including candy, is a disordered eating behavior known as "chewing and spitting" or "C&S." When you chew and spit food, some of the sugars and nutrients from the food may be absorbed through the oral mucosa (the lining of the mouth) and the digestive enzymes present in saliva. However, the degree of nutrient absorption is minimal compared to swallowing the food.
While you may not be taking in all the calories and nutrients as you would if you swallowed the food, chewing and spitting can still have negative consequences on both your physical and mental health. Here are some reasons why this behavior is problematic:
Incomplete calorie and nutrient intake: Chewing and spitting food means that your body does not receive the full nutritional benefits of the food, leading to potential nutritional deficiencies over time.
Disordered eating patterns: Engaging in chewing and spitting can perpetuate disordered eating patterns and contribute to an unhealthy relationship with food.
Increased risk of developing eating disorders: Chewing and spitting is often associated with or can be a gateway behavior to more severe eating disorders like bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder.
Oral health issues: Frequent exposure to sugars from chewed food can increase the risk of dental cavities and other oral health problems.
Emotional distress: Chewing and spitting can lead to guilt, shame, and anxiety about food and eating, further exacerbating the emotional impact of disordered eating behaviors.
If you find yourself engaging in chewing and spitting or any other disordered eating behaviors, it's crucial to seek professional help. Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that can have severe consequences on your physical health and overall well-being. A healthcare professional or mental health specialist experienced in eating disorders can provide appropriate assessment, support, and treatment to help you develop a healthier relationship with food and your body.