Chewing gum: whether it’s for fresh breath or a little habit, we’ve all done it. But is it good or bad for your body? It might seem like a harmless activity, but like most things, chewing gum has both upsides and downsides.
Here’s what you need to know.
The Benefits of Chewing Gum
Surprisingly, there are some solid perks to chewing gum – and not just freshening up after lunch.
1. Improves Focus and Concentration
Chewing gum may help sharpen your mind. Research shows that chewing increases blood flow to the brain, improving memory, focus, and cognitive performance. No wonder you often hear about people chewing gum to stay alert during exams or work.
2. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
There’s also evidence that chewing gum can help relieve stress and anxiety. The repetitive motion has a calming effect on the brain, helping to reduce feelings of tension and nervousness. Think of it as a subtle, portable stress reliever that you can use anywhere.
3. Supports Oral Health
Chewing sugar-free gum, particularly varieties with xylitol, can be good for your teeth. It stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and neutralise acids in the mouth. Xylitol, a natural sweetener, also prevents the growth of bacteria that cause cavities. So, after a meal, sugar-free gum might offer some oral health benefits.
The Downsides of Chewing Gum
Of course, it’s not all positive. Like anything, chewing gum comes with its drawbacks, especially if you overdo it.
1. Jaw Problems
Excessive gum chewing can lead to jaw issues, particularly a condition called temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. This affects the muscles and joints in your jaw, leading to discomfort, pain, and even headaches. If you’re constantly chewing gum, your jaw may become overworked, so it’s important to chew in moderation.
2. Digestive Issues
Chewing gum can also confuse your digestive system. The act of chewing signals to your stomach that food is coming, triggering acid and enzyme production. Since no food actually arrives, this can lead to bloating, gas, or discomfort. Not ideal when all you wanted was fresh breath!
3. Hidden Sugars
If you chew regular gum (the sugary kind), it’s not great for your teeth. Sugar feeds bacteria in the mouth, which leads to tooth decay and cavities. While gum can help clean your mouth, it’s crucial to choose sugar-free varieties, or you’ll end up doing more harm than good.
Is Chewing Gum Good or Bad?
In short, chewing gum isn’t entirely good or bad – it depends on how you use it. Sugar-free gum can have benefits, from improving focus to supporting oral health. However, chewing too much can cause jaw strain, digestive discomfort, and, if you go for sugary options, tooth decay.
Like with most things, moderation is key. Chewing gum occasionally to freshen up or boost concentration? That’s fine. But if you’re constantly chewing, you might want to give your jaw and stomach a break.
So, enjoy it when needed – just remember to keep it balanced!
