How to Use Gum to Control Appetite

Many people consider gum a type of candy, but the sticky treat has many more benefits than a chocolate bar. Chewing gum freshens your breath and helps suppress your appetite. Gum is also a low-calorie food; a stick of gum typically has zero to 10 calories. If you're trying to lose weight or watch your caloric intake, incorporating sugarless gum into your weight control strategies may help you stay on track.

Things You'll Need

• Sugarless gum

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Instructions

• 1

  Chew sugarless gum for at least 20 minutes after meals. Chewing gum after meals increases saliva production and reduces plaque growth. In addition, you'll be less likely to reach for dessert while enjoying the minty taste of gum.

• 2

  Chew a stick of sugarless gum before snacking. According to a 2007 study reported in "Appetite," participants who chewed gum before snacking ate about 35 fewer calories.

• 3

  Keep sugarless gum in your purse, work desk and pantry. Do not keep unhealthy snacks in your purse or desk. You're less likely to reach for an unhealthy snack when it's more convenient to chew gum.