Chewing gum is a controversial product. Some say that it causes gastritis, others that it prevents tooth decay. Some consider this a good way to lose weight, others - an obesity provocateur. Whom to believe? US! Find out if chewing is better than talking.
Pros of chewing gum:
1) It really helps to lose weight, according to scientists from the United States. The explanation is simple: chewing gum deceives the brain and can temporarily make it turn off the signal "I need food!"
2) Relieves stress. Experts at the University of Northumbria believe that chewing lowers blood cortisol levels. And the taste and smell lead to a burst of endorphins - therefore, chewing gum improves mood.
3) Useful on the plane. Chewing relieves ear congestion during takeoffs and landings.
4) Massages the gums - and this can prevent periodontal disease.
5) Helps prevent tooth decay - confirmed by the American Dental Association (ADA). Chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva - and it cleans the teeth of plaque. True, for this purpose, it is better to choose a sugar-free gum. 6) The sweetener in gum does not cause cancer or other diseases. Aspartame is usually added to it - there are many frightening myths around this substance, but there is no scientific evidence of harm.
7) Gum can be swallowed: There is no evidence that a small lump of gum can harm your intestines. It will leave the body naturally in a couple of days.
8) Refreshes breath. Even if not for 8 hours, as the advertisement promises, but nevertheless. However, chewing gum is not a substitute for brushing your teeth: it should be used when there is no way to even rinse your mouth out.
Minuses:
1) Chewing gum can destroy fillings, braces, crowns and bridges - so it's best to talk to your dentist about whether you should use it and, if so, how often.
2) Sugar is added to some types of gum. By itself, it is not harmful, but many people already overeat sweets - so it is important not to lose vigilance. Remember, WHO recommends no more than 10% added sugar of your total daily calories.
3) You need to be careful with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: chewing gum provokes the production of gastric juice - and it can irritate the gastric mucosa. For the same reason, it is not recommended to use it on an empty stomach.
4) If you have overdeveloped chewing muscles, your tooth enamel can wear out.
Should I chew or not?
Chewing gum is possible, and sometimes even necessary. But be careful: experts recommend using it only immediately after a meal and no more than five minutes a day. And if you have diseases of the gastrointestinal tract or oral cavity, first consult with a specialist.
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19 December 2021, 20:26
