You chew gum because you want to freshen your breath, clean your teeth, get rid of an unpleasant taste, or just out of boredom.
However, you rarely think about the consequences, and they are not always positive for you.
Chewing gum has many undeniable benefits, but some can be very harmful.
Teeth
Sugar-free chewing gum is great at killing bacteria that currently cannot be removed by any other means.
All because of the increased production of saliva, which washes away harmful acids and food debris from the surface of the teeth. However, if you choose a sweet chewing gum, you risk getting caries and tartar.
Memory
Reach for a piece of gum when you want to concentrate on something. Chewing has been shown to have a positive effect on heart rate, blood pressure, and central nervous system oxygenation.
As a result, you are more attentive, remember more, absorb information and make decisions more easily.
Weight
Chewing gum in the morning has been proven to reduce appetite, which leads to weight loss.
If it replaces sweet snacks, you are limiting the amount of calories you consume.
However, this is not correct. Increased saliva production makes some people feel even hungrier, and this does not contribute to the weight loss process.
Jaw
Chewing is very taxing on your body, especially the joints in your jaw and the muscles around it. A side effect can be constant pain while eating or even just talking. It often radiates around the neck and shoulders. So you shouldn't do it too often, and if you do, limit the pressure.
Digestion
It has already been mentioned that increased production of saliva has a beneficial effect on your well-being.
It prevents morning sickness in particular. If your digestive system is not very sensitive, you may get bloating, stomach cramps, lower abdominal pain and even diarrhea.
Heartburn
The unpleasant burning sensation is usually caused by high levels of acids in the esophagus. Chewing gum can reduce this condition, again due to the increased amount of saliva that is then produced.
Chewing gum is worth using, especially after you have eaten something spicy.
Brain
Researchers have found that you generally feel happier when you chew gum.
This process has an anti-stress effect (reduces cortisol levels) and, as a result, improves mood. But it can also lead to these jaw problems, which usually end in headaches or recurring migraines.
Ears
Infections in this organ are really painful, so it is better to prevent them. Researchers say it is worth chewing gum containing xylitol.
This substance has an antibacterial effect, limiting the growth of microorganisms in the areas where the ears and nose meet.
Earlier we talked about at what age children can be given coffee .
Expert: Elena Gutyro
