Introduction
Chewing gum is a popular habit that many of us enjoy, but did you know that it can have some surprising effects on your health? According to dietitian and nutrition expert, Dr. Lisa Young, chewing gum can have a number of positive effects on your body. From helping to reduce stress to aiding in weight loss, the benefits of chewing gum are far-reaching. In this article, we’ll explore four surprising effects of chewing gum that you may not have known about.
4 Surprising Effects of Chewing Gum, Says Dietitian — Eat This Not That
Chewing gum has been around for centuries, but it’s only recently that dietitians have started to recognize the potential health benefits of this popular snack. From helping to reduce stress to aiding in weight loss, chewing gum can have a surprisingly positive impact on your health. Here are four surprising effects of chewing gum, according to dietitians.
1. Chewing Gum Can Help Reduce Stress
Chewing gum can help reduce stress levels by releasing endorphins, which are hormones that help to reduce stress and anxiety. Chewing gum can also help to reduce cortisol levels, which is the hormone responsible for stress. Studies have shown that chewing gum can help to reduce stress levels in both adults and children.
2. Chewing Gum Can Help Improve Memory
Chewing gum can help to improve memory by increasing blood flow to the brain. Studies have shown that chewing gum can help to improve short-term memory, as well as long-term memory. Chewing gum can also help to improve concentration and focus.
3. Chewing Gum Can Help Aid in Weight Loss
Chewing gum can help to aid in weight loss by helping to reduce cravings for unhealthy snacks. Chewing gum can help to reduce hunger and cravings, which can help to reduce overall calorie intake. Chewing gum can also help to increase metabolism, which can help to burn more calories.
4. Chewing Gum Can Help Improve Oral Health
Chewing gum can help to improve oral health by increasing saliva production. Saliva helps to neutralize acids in the mouth, which can help to reduce the risk of cavities and tooth decay. Chewing gum can also help to reduce plaque buildup, which can help to reduce the risk of gum disease.
Chewing gum can have a surprisingly positive impact on your health. From helping to reduce stress to aiding in weight loss, chewing gum can be a great addition to your diet. However, it’s important to remember that chewing gum should not replace healthy eating habits. Talk to your dietitian to find out more about the potential health benefits of chewing gum.
A stick of chewing gum. You don’t think much of it besides the fact that it helps you with your bad breath, or it gives you something to chew on throughout the day. It’s easy to stick in your purse or your car in case you need to have a piece with you.
Well, did you know that chewing gum actually has more benefits than you thought? We spoke with our medical expert board member Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, LDN, CLEC, CPT, author of The First Time Mom’s Pregnancy Cookbook, The 7 Ingredient Healthy Pregnancy Cookbook, and Fueling Male Fertility, who tells the surprising effects of what chewing gum can do for you. Then be sure to check out Does Chewing Gum Help You Lose Weight?
Typically, gum contains lots of sugar in one stick. However, switching to sugarless options can do you some good.
“If you are chewing sugarless gum, there is evidence suggesting that this act can help reduce your cavity risk if you chew after your meals for a specific amount of time,” says Manaker. “Chewing can increase saliva production, which can ‘wash away’ potential culprits and expose teeth to more calcium, possibly resulting in stronger teeth.
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“For children who are prone to developing ear infections, chewing gum with Xylitol may help reduce their risk of experiencing this painful condition,” says Manaker.
Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol that is typically found in plants, including many fruits and vegetables. Its sweet taste is often used as a sugar substitute, which is why you can find it in sugar-free candies, like gum. Xylitol can act against some bacteria that cause ear infections, as well as reduce levels of decay-causing bacteria in saliva.
According to Manaker, your bowel movements may become more stable if you chew gum after surgery.
“If you underwent gastrointestinal (GI) surgery or a surgery which involves that area of the body (like a C section), your bowel function might return quicker if you chew sugarless gum multiple times a day post-op,” she says.
If you’re always looking for something sweet, whether it be after a meal or as a midday snack, gum can be the solution to your sugary cravings.
“Some evidence shows that chewing gum can satisfy a sweet tooth and can help people suppress their appetite, ultimately helping them manage their weight,” says Manaker. If you’re looking to curb your sugar cravings, check out these 25 Healthy, Shelf-Stable Snacks for Anyone with a Sweet Tooth.
Kayla Garritano