From kids to adults, everyone has the experience of chewing gums. They are sweet, gum-like substances used mainly as mouth fresheners.
Chewing gums are soft and cohesive in nature. They are specially manufactured to be chewed. Modern chewing gums contain a gum base, with sweeteners and softeners. They are available in various flavors and colors. They also contain a special powdered polyol coating. You will be amazed to know that ancient people also used chewing gums. The most ancient form of chewing gum was prepared from the tree sap extracts, mostly from the Manilkara chicle. There are so many misconceptions about chewing gum floating on the internet. Let's debunk those myths.
Myth: If you swallow chewing gum it will stick to your digestive system for decades.
Fact: Almost every kid has heard this caution from their parents. Sometimes this is used as a warning so that the kid doesn't swallow the entire chewing gum. Based on the properties, these gums are only made for chewing, but not for swallowing. Being an indigestible substance chewing gum can easily travel the entire digestive tract without sticking to any organs. No evidence suggests sticking chewing gum around the stomach or liver as mentioned by some parents. So, if you mistakenly swallowed chewing gum, don't get worried. It will surely pass through your digestive tract. As chewing gum doesn't have sufficient nutrients, so it's always better to throw it after chewing for sometime.
Myth: Chewing Gums can lead to dental cavity formation.
Fact: This is a partial truth. Cavity formation in teeth depends on various factors starting from excessive sweets, improper and irregular brushing, and many more. Also, people have different types of gums. Yes, sweetened chewing gums can harm your teeth, but not all. So, sugarless chewing gums are the best option. It has been observed that sugarless chewing gums can prevent cavity formation. Chewing gums can enhance saliva flow which strengthens the enamel portion of your tooth.
Myth: If you chew gums regularly, there is no need for brushing.
Fact: This is an utterly false notion. Chewing gum cannot compensate for brushing. Many chewing gums can be used as a mouth freshener, but they cannot do the job of the brush. Proper brushing removes bacterial outgrowth,and bad breath and prevents dental decay. So, never replace brushing with chewing gums.
Myth: Chewing gums are not healthy.
Fact: Initially, chewing gums were mainly sugar enriched, but, over the years, the manufacturers have understood the health aspects. Now, various healthy chewing gums are available in the market. Scientifically, chewing gums can release stress and increase memory. Some research studies also confirmed that nonstop chewing can reduce your hunger and appetite, so it can help in losing excess weight.
So, never listen to those misconceptions and opt for healthy chewing gums.
