Understanding Gum Chewing and Calorie Burn
For those looking to understand the relationship between chewing gum and energy expenditure, it’s helpful to explore the physiological process and the impact of different gum types on calorie burn.
Physiology of Chewing and Metabolism
Chewing gum gets our jaw muscles working and, like any physical activity, it requires energy. The act of chewing can marginally increase your heart rate and metabolism.
As such, a person can burn approximately 11 calories per hour just from the motion of chewing. While this might seem minimal, over time, these calories can add up, contributing to the total daily caloric expenditure.
Comparing Different Types of Gum
When it comes to gum, not all are created equal. Sugar-sweetened gum typically contains more calories per piece compared to its sugarless counterparts.
Sugar-free gum is often sweetened with artificial sweeteners like aspartame, sorbitol, xylitol, and saccharin.
These substitutes provide the sweet taste with fewer calories, making them a popular choice for those looking to control calorie intake.
Beyond calorie content, the type of gum chewed may influence the duration and intensity of chewing, potentially affecting how many calories are burned during the process.
Health Benefits Beyond Calorie Burning
Chewing gum is often touted for its ability to help burn a few extra calories, but its benefits extend far beyond this modest energy expenditure.
From promoting oral health to aiding in weight management, the advantages of this chewable treat are worth exploring.
Oral Health and Chewing Gum
Chewing sugar-free gum has been recommended by dental health professionals for its ability to stimulate saliva production.
Increased saliva flow helps neutralize and wash away the acids that are produced when food is broken down by the bacteria in plaque on your teeth, which can help prevent tooth decay.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recognizes sugar-free gum with the ADA Seal as being safe and effective for reducing plaque acids, promoting remineralization of tooth enamel, and reducing gingivitis.
Appetite Control and Weight Management
Chewing gum can also be a strategic tool for managing appetite and ultimately assisting with weight management.
There’s evidence to suggest that chewing can reduce the feeling of hunger, with some people less likely to reach for snacks after chewing gum.
This could potentially lead to a decrease in calorie intake during subsequent meals.
Additionally, chewing gum could serve as a low-calorie alternative to high-sugar snacks in managing cravings, thus playing a small role in a comprehensive weight loss or weight management strategy recommended by health reformers and organizations like the Mayo Clinic.
It’s clear that while the act of chewing gum itself does not lead to significant calorie burn, it can contribute to the overall caloric balance that’s crucial in weight control efforts.
Behavioral Aspects of Chewing Gum
Chewing gum isn’t just a habit—it may influence dietary choices and eating frequency, which affects calorie control in significant ways.
Chewing Gum and Dietary Choices
Chewing gum can play an interesting role in regulating appetite and controlling cravings.
Individuals who chew gum often report reduced feelings of hunger and could potentially choose healthier snacking options.
By occupying the mouth, gum may lessen the desire to consume high-calorie snacks.
Chewing sugar-free gum is also a clever tactic encouraged within a weight-loss strategy since it’s low in calories and can satisfy the need to eat without derailing a healthy diet.
Gum Chewing Habits and Frequency
The frequency of gum chewing might significantly influence subsequent calorie intake.
For example, making a habit of chewing gum before meals can lead to a reduction in appetite and, potentially, a decrease in overall calorie consumption.
This repeated behavior creates a cadence that may help condition the body’s cravings and eating behaviors to align with calorie control and exercise objectives, supporting those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy lifestyle.