While chewing gum is undoubtedly one of the heroes in achieving fresher breath, it has several lesser-known, but equally beneficial advantages. Next time you reach for a piece of gum, consider Orbit’s Top 10 benefits of chewing gum:
- Improves concentration and memory: UK psychologist, Andrew Scholey of the University of Northumbria says studies have shown that chewing gum boosts mental performance by helping to increase concentration and memory. Chewing gum increases the flow of blood to the brain, which helps the brain to function optimally.
- Improves wakefulness: Chewing gum stimulates facial muscles and parts of the brain associated with arousal. It also increases blood flow through the body, which keeps you focused and alert.
- Reduces heartburn: Chewing gum after a meal can help lower acid levels in the esophagus. In this case, it’s wise to avoid peppermint and spearmint. The newly launched Orbit watermelon and bubblegum flavor will come in handy if you suffer from heartburn.
- Combats nausea: Mint is a natural remedy for nausea. Sugar-free mint gum is an effective way to help treat nausea, soothe an upset stomach and reduce morning or motion sickness.
- Reduces stress and anxiety: UK psychologist, Andrew Scholey of the University of Northumbria says studies have shown that chewing gum reduces the stress hormone, cortisol, which assists in decreasing anxiety, stress and fatigue levels.
- Improves digestion: Chewing gum after meals improves the performance of the digestive system by stimulating the flow of saliva, which allows for more frequent swallowing. This, in-turn, activates the digestive process.
- Manages weight loss: Sugar-free gum can act as a calorie-free snack. Chewing gum can help curb cravings, making it easier to resist unhealthy snacks.
- Rids you of “earworms”: We have all been victim to an earworm, a catchy piece of music that gets stuck in your head. The repetitiveness of chewing gum can distract the part of your brain that constantly repeats the song.
- Freshens your breath: Without stating the obvious, the mint flavour in gum reduces unpleasant odours, while the excess saliva helps wipe out any excess food that could be causing these odours.
- Protects teeth: Studies have shown that chewing sugar-free gum after meals can help neutralise acids that can be harmful to your teeth. Sugar-free gum reduces plaque, lessen cavities and gingivitis and increases saliva flow, which strengthens tooth enamel and reduces acid that causes decay. Orbit sugar-free chewing gum gives you the confidence to tackle life’s moments when It’s Your Time to Shine!
