The phenomenon of people chewing loudly, even with their mouths closed, is known as "misophonia" or "selective sound sensitivity syndrome." Misophonia is a condition where certain sounds trigger strong emotional or physical reactions in some individuals, leading to feelings of irritation, anger, or anxiety. Chewing sounds, slurping, lip-smacking, or other repetitive noises can be particularly bothersome to people with misophonia.
There can be several reasons why some people might chew loudly:
Habit: Some individuals may have developed a habit of chewing loudly over time, possibly due to the way they were raised or their environment.
Anatomical factors: Differences in jaw structure or dental issues might cause some people to produce louder chewing sounds than others.
Inattentiveness: Some individuals may not be fully aware of the noise they are making while chewing.
If someone wants to be quieter while eating, here are some tips they can follow:
Mindfulness: Being more mindful of their chewing habits can help individuals become more aware of the sounds they make while eating. Paying attention to the noises they produce can help them consciously work on being quieter.
Chewing with the mouth closed: Ensuring that the mouth is completely closed while chewing can help reduce the noise. Opening the mouth while chewing can amplify the sound.
Slow down: Chewing slowly and deliberately can reduce the noise generated while eating. Rushing through a meal may lead to louder chewing.
Cut food into smaller pieces: Reducing the size of the food can help minimize chewing sounds.
Avoid crunchy or noisy foods: Opt for softer or quieter foods to reduce overall noise during meals.
Use background noise: Playing some soft background music or using white noise devices during meals can help mask the chewing sounds and make them less noticeable.
Seek professional help: If misophonia is causing significant distress or affecting daily life, it may be beneficial to seek help from a mental health professional who can provide coping strategies and support.
It's essential to approach the issue with sensitivity and understanding, as individuals with misophonia may have difficulty controlling their reactions to certain sounds. If you know someone who chews loudly, it might be helpful to gently bring it to their attention, but do so with empathy and without judgment.