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Advantages of Chewing Gum

For centuries, people have been chomping down on chewing gum. Ancient Greeks chewed on mastiche, gum made from the resin of mastic trees, while the Mayans preferred chicle, a substance derived from sapodilla tree sap. Today, gum comes in many varieties: gumballs, stick gum, sugar-free gum and even nicotine gum. While many people chew gum for the taste, the snack has numerous health benefits.

  1. Oral Hygiene

    • The American Dental Association gave a seal of acceptance to several kinds of sugar-free chewing gum. As research supports, chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva, which helps cleanse the teeth of harmful plaque and food particles. In addition, some types of gum leave a fresh, minty taste in your mouth. Be aware that chewing sugared gum can yield opposite results by coating your teeth with sugar.

    Weight Watching

    • According to Science Daily, a study from the University of Rhode Island revealed that chewing gum reduces calorie intake amounts. Gum not only lacks a high calorie count, but it alleviates the craving for snacking on high calorie foods. On average, people who chew gum in the morning consume 67 fewer calories later in the day. That may not seem like a significant decrease in calories, but it can add up over time.

    Stress Relief

    • Chewing gum helps relieve stress. Coaches and athletes chew gum during competition to keep the tension down and maintain levelheadedness. The next time you have to give a speech or presentation, chew a piece of gum beforehand to calm your nerves. Just remember to toss it out before you open your mouth to speak; you don't want to expose your secret weapon to your peers.

    Focus

    • Chewing gum can improve your concentration and memory. Students who chew gum in class are able to retain information better than their non-chewing peers. Chewing gum may also improve blood flow to the brain, keeping you alert and focused. If your grades are suffering or if you have problems staying awake in class or at work, chewing gum may be part of the answer to your troubles.

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