HEALTH

Your days of minty-fresh breath and bubblegum popping have just gotten *so* much better. Chewing gum has long been seen as the fast track to getting cavities. And while your dentist may be onto something when suggesting sugar-free gum as an alternative, chewing gum has more benefits than you may think.

The ultimate brain fuel

@ruhuvisal

Looking to upgrade your old study habits? Try adding a bit of bubblegum to your next study sesh!  The International Journal of Medical Science found that chewing gum helps oxygen flow to your brain's hippocampus—the center for memory and learning.

Prevents tooth decay

While this doesn't mean your strip of Extra gum is an excuse to skip out on daily brushing, chewing sugar-free gum can actually fight bad bacteria in your mouth. According to the American Dental Association, when you chew gum, saliva builds up in your mouth. This can low-key sound gross, but more spit in your mouth = the better your bod dilutes the damaging acids on your teeth. 

Say goodbye to ear pain

@momonatamada

Rounding up all your travel essentials is hectic enough, so the last thing you want to be thinking about during your vacation era is the ear pain that might come with being thousands of feet in the air. Dread no more because chewing gum helps build enough pressure to pop your ears!

Even if you're not on a plane, Dr. Brenda Paulen, a dentist based in Georgia, says that gum that contains Xylitol, a "tooth-friendly" sweetener, can help prevent bacteria in your throat and ears— so you are less likely to get an ear infection regardless of whether you're in the air or on land.

A minty wake-me-up

We all know the feeling. You woke up a little too late to go get your essential morning Starbs. Don't worry, that stick of gum in your backpack might just be your new daytime jump-start. Research has shown that gum can actually fight sleepiness and help you stay alert—just make sure you reach for mint instead of a juicy fruit.

Helps fight stress and anxiety

@kyliecantrall

Whether your crush has left your Snap on delivered for a little too long or you're going through some bts anxiety, gum might just be your fix. Whenever we feel stressed or anxious, our bodies go through high levels of cortisol—a stress hormone. PSA: Keeping your cortisol levels low is key to being relaxed. Chew your way to happiness, because research has shown that chewing gum helps reduce cortisol levels.

Slider image: @whatericacraves
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by Annika Chaves | 9/19/2023