You might think chewing gum is harmless. It helps freshen your breath, keeps your jaw busy, sharpens your focus when you're bored or stressed, and, according to research, may even lower your anxiety levels. So what's the big deal with popping a piece into your mouth whenever you can? Shouldn't chewing gum be encouraged instead?
Before you convince yourself that chewing gum is an innocent habit, you might want to read up on the downsides it can bring. From jaw problems to digestive issues, let's take a look at why you should rethink your actions before unwrapping your next piece.
It Can Hurt Your Jaw
The thing about chewing gum is that it requires, well, constant chewing. Over time, this can tire your jaw muscles, which can cause clicking, stiffness, and tension headaches. If you already experience issues with your jaw, such as with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), this excessive strain can make the problem far worse. The same goes for if you regularly grind or clench your teeth at night.
Some believe there are benefits to constant chewing, though. For one, there's a widely believed claim that chewing gum can sharpen the jawline, allowing it to look more defined. But most of the muscles you use for chewing are located in your neck and cheeks, which means you're unlikely to see any changes in the shape of your jaw.
It Can Cause Digestive Issues
Constantly chewing gum doesn't just cause issues in the jaw and mouth; it can trigger problems downward, too, in your digestive system. When you chew, you produce saliva, which causes you to swallow excessively. Because you're swallowing nothing but air and saliva, this can lead to bloating and gas buildup.
There may also be downsides to chewing gum on an empty stomach. While some research suggests that there's no difference either way and that the habit may even reduce acid reflux, other experts claim that chewing triggers the anticipation of food. This means your body releases digestive enzymes and acid in preparation, but without any food actually going down the tract, the acid doesn't have much to do other than just sitting in your stomach. Over time, this can lead to abdominal pain, irritation, or even stomach ulcers.
Sugar-Free Isn't Harmless
Because chewing produces saliva, this can help neutralize acids and may even prevent the formation of cavities. It's important, however, to make sure you're chewing sugar-free varieties, as sugary options will only create more problems for your oral health.
And yet, that doesn't mean sugar-free choices are entirely harmless, either. While they might not cause cavity-causing bacteria to build up in the mouth, some artificial sweeteners may not be as easily tolerated by some. Sorbitol, for example, can potentially cause bloating, cramps, and diarrhea in those who have an intolerance to the sugar alcohol.
This doesn't mean you should stop chewing gum entirely, but that, like everything else, it's a habit that requires moderation. Instead of constantly popping a piece into your mouth, make it an occasional thing, and stick to chewing for short, 30-minute stretches.
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