Horace Fletcher's 'The New Glutton or Epicure' is a groundbreaking work that challenges traditional ideas of food consumption and nutrition. The book presents Fletcher's belief in the importance of thorough mastication and the benefits of eating slowly and mindfully. Written in a persuasive and informative style, 'The New Glutton or Epicure' delves into the science behind digestion and metabolism, providing readers with valuable insights into how proper eating habits can lead to better health. Fletcher's work can be seen as a precursor to the modern-day movement towards mindful eating and nutrition education. His ideas remain relevant and thought-provoking, even in today's fast-paced world of convenience foods and fad diets. Horace Fletcher, known for his advocacy of the 'Fletcherism' diet, was a pioneer in promoting the importance of chewing food thoroughly for health and wellness. His research and writings laid the foundation for the modern understanding of how digestion impacts overall well-being. 'The New Glutton or Epicure' is a must-read for anyone interested in nutrition, health, and the history of dietary practices. It offers a fresh perspective on food consumption that continues to resonate with readers seeking a more mindful approach to eating.

Horace Fletcher (18491919) was an American health food enthusiast of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, nicknamed 'The Great Masticator' for his advocacy of chewing food until it became liquid to improve health. His ideologies and writings laid the groundwork for future nutritional philosophies and fad dieting. The core of his dietary philosophy is encapsulated in 'The New Glutton or Epicure' (1903), wherein he contrasts the term 'glutton' to an individual who overeats without appreciating food, with an 'epicure', who delights in the taste and texture of food chewed thoroughly. Fletcher's method, branded as 'Fletcherism', argued that thorough chewing would increase the nutritional value of food, control overeating, and improve overall health. Fletcher's work was a precursor to the modern chewing movement and is often referenced in discussions on mindful eating. His approach, although not scientifically substantiated by contemporary standards, reflects an early recognition of the psychological aspects of satiety and digestion. Fletcher's influence extended beyond diet, also touching upon theories of physical fitness and waste elimination, which, although unconventional, incited dialogue on the holistic approach to health during a time when processed foods were becoming commonplace.