. Digestion begins in the kitchen: As soon as we smell food, our body begins to produce enzymes that aid in digestion. Therefore, smelling the aroma of a pot roast in the oven prepares our body for digestion better than if we were to pop a Lean Cuisine into the microwave.
2. Promotes sustainable food production: By purchasing locally grown produce and regional livestock, you’re not only helping local farmers’ businesses, but also helping the environment by reducing your carbon footprint — it takes 435 fossil-fuel calories to fly a strawberry from California to New York.
3. Studies confirm that eating slower results in consuming less calories: It takes approximately 20 minutes for our brains to register that we’re full, so if you’re trying to lose weight, pace yourself and chew slower.
4. Looking for locally-produced foods leads to better food choices: By purchasing locally grown food, you’ll consume less processed food, less refined sugars and carbs, and likely eat healthier fruits and vegetables — eating local foods mean that the produce can ripen longer and will contain more nutrients.
5. Helps with stress reduction: The more conscious we are of our eating habits — eating slowly and enjoying each bite rather than shoveling in a meal in front of the television — the more mindful we are of our bodies. According to Buddhist monk Andy Puddicombe, “food meditation” brings your attention back to you physical senses and encourages us to take pleasures in the moment.