She Strengthens

The Surprising Benefits of Chewing Gum

More Than Just a Habit

Chewing gum is often seen as a lifestyle or habit, but did you know it can have several benefits for your overall health? From reducing stress to improving oral health, the advantages of chewing gum are numerous.

What’s in Your Gum?

Before we dive into the benefits, let’s take a look at what makes up your average piece of gum. Chewing gum is typically made from a combination of elastomers, resins, waxes or oils, fillers, flavoring, and sweeteners. While it may seem unusual that these ingredients can be good for you, science suggests otherwise.

9 Health Benefits of Chewing Gum

1. Stress Less: Chewing gum has been shown to reduce stress levels, making it a great tool for students or individuals in high-pressure situations.
2. Memory Boost: Chewing gum has been linked to improved cognition and memory, with some studies suggesting it can even activate the part of the brain associated with memory.
3. Healthy Teeth: Sugar-free gum can help clean food off your teeth, increase salivation to fight plaque, and rebuild enamel.
4. Ear Infection Prevention: Xylitol, a sugar alcohol used to sweeten gum, has been shown to prevent bacterial infections that can lead to inner ear infections.
5. Quit Smoking: Nicotine replacement therapy, including nicotine gum, can be an effective way to quit smoking.
6. Gut Health: Chewing gum can help kick-start your digestive system after surgery, improving the recovery of intestinal function.
7. Heartburn Relief: Chewing gum can help wash down digestive acid and improve reflux symptoms, providing relief from heartburn.
8. Thirst Quencher: While it won’t improve hydration, chewing gum can make you feel less thirsty in a pinch.
9. Clearer Vision: Some studies suggest that chewing gum can improve eye focus, although more research is needed to confirm this benefit.

The Drawbacks

While sugar-free gum is generally considered safe, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. Gum containing sugar can increase the risk of cavities, while gum with acids like citric acid may lower plaque pH and erode enamel. Additionally, consuming large amounts of sugar alcohols like xylitol can cause digestive distress.

Choosing the Best Gum

When selecting a gum, keep the following tips in mind:

• Opt for Sugar-Free: None of the benefits are worth the risk of cavities.
• Pick a Flavor You Like: You’ll be more likely to chew it regularly.
• Look for Xylitol: Its antibacterial properties can do wonders for your mouth, but be mindful of digestive issues.

The Bottom Line

Chewing sugar-free gum can be a harmless habit with several health benefits, from improving digestion to reducing stress levels. At the very least, it helps keep your teeth clean and your mouth healthy. So go ahead, grab a piece of gum, and start chomping!