Chewing and Spitting: A Deep Dive

Chewing and spitting is something many people struggle with, but very few talk about openly. If this is something you’re dealing with, you’re not alone and there is a way forward.   ➡️ In this episode, I explore what chewing and spitting actually is, why it often develops alongside restriction and food rules, and why it can feel like a “solution” at first. For many, it starts as a way to enjoy food without the fear of weight gain, but over time it can become a compulsive and isolating behaviour that’s hard to stop. I also talk about the real impact this has on your mental and physical health, from digestive issues and dental problems to increased food obsession, shame, and feeling stuck in a cycle that takes over your day.   Most importantly, I share practical steps to help you begin breaking free from chewing and spitting, including reducing restriction, rebuilding regular eating, allowing feared foods, and developing a more compassionate relationship with yourself and your body. If you’ve been stuck in this behaviour, even for a long time, change is possible and it starts with understanding what’s really going on beneath the surface. Time slots: - 2:22 Digestion. 2:47 Teeth. 3:18 Weight gain. 3:47 Addictive. 4:08 Isolation and shame. 4:36 Motivation. 5:19 Restrictive eating. 5: 54 Mindfulness. 6:12 Emotions. 6:36 Perfectionism.   🌐 If you're looking for more support in your recovery journey, you can explore my work here: https://www.theeatingdisordertherapist.co.uk/ Share your thoughts in the comments below. 📱 Food Freedom App: https://studio.com/apps/harriet/freedomfood 🎙 Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-eating-disorder-therapist/id1499476074   🔔 Subscribe to YouTube for weekly eating disorder recovery support, therapy insights, and real conversations about food and healing: https://www.youtube.com/@theeatingdisordertherapist?sub_confirmation=1 Online Courses: Fitness Lovers Guide to Food Freedom https://food-freedom-coach.teachable.com/p/radical-self-care-and-building-your-thriving-eating-disorder-therapy-practice Breaking Free From Bulimia: https://food-freedom-coach.teachable.com/p/intuitive-eating-beginners-course4  Professional Training:  Eating Disorders Training: https://www.theeatingdisordertherapist.co.uk/eating-disorders-training-with-harriet-frew.html Body Image Training: https://www.theeatingdisordertherapist.co.uk/body-image-training-with-harriet-frew.html 📲 Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theeatingdisordertherapist/ -   #HarrietFrew #TheEatingDisorderTherapist #EatingDisorderRecovery #ChewingAndSpitting #DisorderedEating #FoodFreedomJourney #BingeEatingRecovery #MentalHealthSupport #FoodObsessions #BodyImageHealing #RecoveryIsPossible #EmotionalEating #InnerHealing #TherapyInsights