Chewing gum is a soft, rubbery substance that’s designed to be chewed but not swallowed. It is not a modern invention, but has a history of thousands of years associated with it, mainly started by the ancient Mediterranean people. And it has its benefits too.
Original gums were made from the sap of trees, such as spruce or Manilkara chicle. But now modern chewing gums are made from synthetic rubbers comprising mainly of granulated sugar, maltose, gum base and flavourings.
A study shows that chewing gum improves concentration and memory. Continues chewing increases blood and oxygen flow to the brain thereby helping to enhance memory and other cognitive functions. It also reduces acid reflux and heartburn and results in increased saliva production which in turn helps in the process of swallowing.
Chewing gum which usually tastes sweet also helps to control over-eating. Constant chewing of gum reduces appetite and thus prevents people from consuming excess food.
Among other benefits, one gets by chewing gum are getting rid of bad breath (halitosis) and relief from ear pain. Chewing gum produces saliva which in turn reduces the pressure on the ear thereby decreasing in pain. Gum also consists of nicotine which can help people quit smoking.
Lastly, chewing gum after a meal washes away harmful sugars and food debris, both of which produce bacteria in the mouth.
Agencies