Chewing Gum…For Your Health?

A Bite Sized Read for Your Health and Waistline

Photo by Hunter Newton on Unsplash

Chewing gum is a funny thing. We don’t eat it, we don’t swallow it, but there’s still a lot to it when it comes to our health.

Not every brand discloses their formula, and every brand has their own mixture to create the base of their gum. Generally, it’s some combination of gum, resin, filler, softeners, and antioxidants. Every ingredient must be food grade, which just means that it’s “fit” for human consumption. While generally safe, there are some debated ingredients often included in chewing gum.

Some of these ingredients include BHT, titanium dioxide, and aspartame. There are several studies that show how each of these ingredients can be harmful or questionable, but there doesn’t seem to be enough evidence for the government to ban them.

Chewing gum itself has been studied quite extensively. You’ll hear both anecdotal stories and about scientific studies showing that chewing gum could help with stress, concentration, and may even improve memory.

With regard to weight loss, you’ll see evidence and hear stories on both sides. Some studies show it can help with feelings of fullness or satiety, therefore helping people eat less. There was one study that said you burn more calories if you chew gum while walking. Personally, I’m not sure the difference is all that…