I’m wondering if it would be too hard on my stomach/digestive system if I just mashed a kiwi with a fork/spoon and swallowed the semi-mushy pulp and seeds without chewing the kiwi, because I have sensitive teeth and the kiwi is one of the most acidic fruits.
I don’t currently have the option to use a blender, so I’m wondering if just using a spoon/fork to mash it is sufficient(and tolerable/still beneficial to my digestive system and overall health) to not chew it with my teeth. Thanks all.
Mashing the fruit will mimic the mechanical action of breaking down the fruit with your teeth. However, digestion starts in the mouth through the secretion of salivary amylase which breaks down carbohydrates (fruit contains carbohydrates). Simply swallowing the fruit will not cause harm but it is not optimal. It is even recommended to chew drinks such as smoothies.