Chewing gum can freshen breath, relieve stress, and curb appetite; however, consuming it on an empty stomach or excessively can lead to bloating and stomach ulcers.
Dr. Hoàng Đình Thành (Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and Laparoscopic Surgery Center, Tâm Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City) explains that chewing gum has a pleasant aroma and offers several health benefits when used correctly and at the right time. Many people chew gum daily for enjoyment, during leisure time, while working, or to distract from hunger pangs. However, abusing chewing gum when hungry can be detrimental to health, particularly impacting the stomach.
Dr. Thành explains that while chewing gum, we continuously swallow saliva, which can inadvertently lead to swallowing a large amount of air. Excessive chewing can increase the risk of irritable bowel syndrome due to the surplus air causing bloating, abdominal discomfort, and pain. Sugar-free gum contains artificial sweeteners such as sorbitol and mannitol, which can disrupt digestion, cause abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and even contribute to obesity due to potential weight gain.
Individuals attempting to lose weight by chewing gum on an empty stomach to suppress cravings may also inadvertently harm their digestive system. This is because chewing stimulates the secretion of gastric juices meant for digesting food. When no food is introduced, this continuous release of gastric juices and saliva can lead to excess stomach acid. If this habit occurs frequently, it may result in gastrointestinal issues such as stomach ulcers, bloating, and gas.
Improper chewing of gum can harm the digestive tract. (Image: Freepik).
In addition to digestive issues, frequent chewing of gum can also promote bacterial growth, damage tooth enamel, and cause jaw disorders due to excessive chewing, resulting in headaches and neck pain, making jaw movements more difficult.
Chewing gum, also known as gum, is a type of soft candy primarily made of a pliable base, sweeteners, softeners, and flavoring agents. Gum was originally made from chicle tree sap (a tree found in Central America). It has since been replaced with synthetic rubber or a mixture of artificial and natural bases.
According to Dr. Thành, people should only chew gum for a maximum of 15 minutes and discard it once the flavor is gone; it should be consumed 1-2 times a day, with several hours between each use. Chewing gum should not be done on an empty stomach; it is better to wait 20 minutes after a meal when the stomach is full. Additionally, it is not advisable to chew gum before sleeping or to keep gum in the mouth while asleep.
This type of candy is not suitable for children under 6 years old as they may choke or experience intestinal blockage. Chewing gum should not replace regular tooth brushing. Individuals experiencing digestive irregularities should seek immediate medical attention for diagnosis and treatment of any gastrointestinal disorders.
