Is chewing recommended or not?
Throughout history, humans have chewed on many things, from resin to paraffin wax. 5,000 years ago, for example, they chewed pieces of birch tar, as the tar is said to have antiseptic properties and other healing effects. What about modern chewing gum? Apparently, there's more to this habit than just fresh breath. Let's look at some facts about the impact of chewing on your gums and your body.
1. It affects the teeth
Good: Sugar-free chewing gum is an effective means of destroying bacteria. Protects teeth from decay and inflammation of the gums, namely by triggering the production of excess saliva, which washes away acids and food residues from the teeth. It also strengthens enamel because it contains calcium and phosphate.
Bad: If it contains sugar, it has a negative effect on the health of the teeth. Bacteria, which live in the oral cavity, digest the sugar before it reaches the stomach, causing plaque to build up on the teeth. Tooth decay can also increase over time.
2. Improves memory
Chewing increases heart rate, blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain. One positive effect of this is a cognitive boost – memory improves and stress is relieved. Unfortunately, this does not work in the long term, only temporarily.
3. Helps in weight loss
Good: Chewing gum can sometimes suppress appetite. People feel less hungry after chewing in the morning. It's sweet and low-calorie, so you don't need as many snacks. It also increases energy consumption, stimulates your metabolism, which makes after eating don't feel tired.
Bad: Chewing and constant drooling can trick your brain into thinking you're actually hungry. Chewing can actually make people eat fewer meals a day, but it can also make them lose track of calories.
4. It causes jaw problems
Constant chewing can lead to diseases , which affects jaw joints and muscles around them. Every movement of the jaw - eating, laughing or even talking - is accompanied by severe pain, which sometimes spreads to the neck and shoulders. The risk is especially high if you chew in stressful moments, as people tend to unconsciously clench their teeth when they are nervous.
5. It affects the digestive system
Good: The extra saliva produced by chewing helps against morning sickness. Some say it works like medicine, reducing the chances of vomiting, stomach discomfort and nausea just as quickly, while being much cheaper and more readily available.
Bad: The problem arises if you have a sensitive stomach or indigestion. When you chew, you always swallow a small amount of air and fill your stomach with gas, which can cause straining. Alcohol in sugar can cause cramps, abdominal pain and diarrhoea.
6. Reduces heartburn
You can lower it with chewing gum after a meal the level of acid in the esophagus. The flow of saliva dilutes and neutralizes the acid after heavy food, thereby reducing acid reflux and heartburn.
7. It affects your brain
Good: It has a chew anti-stress effects , which improve mood. It lowers the level of cortisol, the stress hormone. Chewing is relaxing for most people. Banished anxiety and fatigue and boosts mood throughout the day.
Bad: Constant pressure on the jaw increases the amount and frequency of migraines and tension headaches. At worst, it can cause chronic headaches. So if you already have a tendency to migraines, it is better to avoid chewing gum altogether.
8. Prevents ear infections
Ear infections occur when bacteria build up in the tubes that connect the nose and ears. Chewing gum that contains natural sweetener xylitol, can prevent, in order for bacteria to settle there.
