Gum has been used throughout history. It is a popular treat. There are tons of different flavors and brands of this chewable candy. Some might have even fallen for the myth that it takes seven years to digest, but does anyone really know the benefits of chewing it?
Besides the fact that it gives freshened breath, sugar-free gum contributes to oral health because it helps increase saliva flow. This is beneficial because saliva is what helps wash away food bacteria from the mouth and therefore helps prevent tooth decay. This increased saliva production also helps protect from having a dry and uncomfortable mouth.
Another benefit of chewing gum is that it helps improve focus and reduce stress. The process of chewing helps increase blood flow to the brain, which helps promote more concentration. Due to the familiar and repetitive motion, the brain stimulates and relaxes. Like a fidget, chewing gum helps distract more anxious parts of the brain, and can help improve productivity.
It is important to remember that these benefits can only be gained with the use of sugar-free gum. Gum with sugar can actually create the opposite effects, like tooth decay, and a decrease in overall mood, so it is safer and more beneficial to chew sugar-free.