According to new research, chewing may play a more complex role in the digestion process and weight control as it appears to impact nutrient absorption and feelings of satiety or fullness.

The study revealed that those who chewed two ounces of almonds between 25 and 40 times before swallowing absorbed significantly more unsaturated fat than those who chewed the almonds only 10 times before swallowing.

It also found evidence that subjects who chewed almonds a greater number of times reported feeling significantly less hungry when they chewed the almonds.

“This research indicates that chewing more thoroughly may increase the availability of unsaturated fat and previous research suggests smaller particle size also impacts the availability of other nutrients present in the fat, like vitamin E, to the body,” says study author Dr Richard Mattes from Purdue University.

“These findings also emphasize the importance of examining chewing in the context of weight management,” he added.

The study was published in a recent issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

When it comes to maintaining digestive health, some health practitioners have recommended using nutritional supplements containing probiotics.