Chew on This: The Benefits of Chewing Gum

chewing gum

Chewing gum was named the number one snack of choice by Americans in 2005. Most consumers know that chewing sugar-free gum can help prevent tooth decay and freshen breath. But new research indicates that chewing gum may be used as a tool to help manage weight, increase focus, alertness and concentration, and help relieve stress.

Weight Management

Chewing gum is portable, inexpensive and low in calories. At 5 to 10 calories per serving, chewing gum is a great way to avoid munching and reduce calorie intake.

  • Chewing gum may aid appetite control, and can be a low-calorie substitute for high-calorie snacks. For example, if you chew two sticks of gum at 20 calories instead of eating 1 to 2 chocolate chip cookies at 140 calories, you can save 120 calories.
  • Sugar-free chewing gum counts as a “free” food in weight management food exchange lists.

Help Improve Focus and Relieve Stress

Chewing gum may offer an easy solution if you are looking for ways to increase focus or relieve tension. Research has shown that chewing gum may help improve alertness and concentration and help relieve daily stress like driving in traffic or waiting in line.

  • Many athletes and coaches chew gum to “stay in the game.” And some schools have reversed school policies and encouraged students to chew gum during tests to help increase their alertness and concentration.
  • Psychiatrists and psychologists suggest two of the reasons people chew gum are to relieve boredom and reduce tension. Chewing gum may also help people release nervous energy and provide an outlet for frustration and irritation.

Source: The American Dietetic Association



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