Researchers are shedding light on the potential benefits of chewing gum for improving focus and alleviating stress. A recent review from the University of Szczecin in Poland analyzed over three decades of brain-imaging studies, revealing how the simple act of chewing can affect brain activity related to attention and stress regulation. This research adds to a long-standing belief that chewing gum may help individuals maintain concentration and manage anxiety.
Humans have engaged in chewing gum for thousands of years, with evidence dating back at least 8,000 years to ancient Scandinavia. Early cultures, including the Greeks and Native Americans, chewed various substances for enjoyment and calming effects. The modern commercial era of chewing gum began in the late 19th century when William Wrigley Jr. popularized it through innovative marketing strategies. His brands, such as Juicy Fruit and Spearmint, positioned gum as a remedy for nerves, hunger, and lack of focus.
In the 1940s, a study indicated that chewing gum could lower tension, although the reasons were unclear. The New York Times reported that gum chewers were able to relax and complete tasks more efficiently. Despite a decline in gum sales in recent years, companies are working to revive its status as a wellness product.
According to the recent review, the act of chewing engages brain regions associated with movement, attention, and emotional control. Using techniques such as MRI and EEG, researchers found that chewing alters brain activity in ways that can enhance alertness and promote what is described as “relaxed concentration.”
Crystal Haskell-Ramsay, a professor of biological psychology at Northumbria University, noted, “If you’re doing a fairly boring task for a long time, chewing seems to be able to help with concentration.” This finding supports earlier research suggesting that chewing gum can reduce stress during mildly stressful tasks, including public speaking or mental calculations. Participants in these studies reported lower anxiety levels when chewing gum compared to those who did not.
Despite these positive effects, the benefits of chewing gum diminish in more intense stress situations, such as before surgery. Additionally, the research found that while gum chewing may temporarily enhance focus, it does not improve memory recall for tasks like remembering lists or complex stories.
The review emphasizes that while the effects of chewing gum can be short-lived, they demonstrate the potential for modulating brain function beyond mere oral activity. Researchers also pointed out that the neural changes linked to gum chewing have yet to be directly connected to the observed behavioral outcomes.
Future studies are needed to explore the long-term impacts of gum chewing, as well as to investigate specific variables related to flavor and stress. The researchers also noted potential therapeutic applications that could arise from a deeper understanding of these effects.
While sugar-free gum may offer dental benefits, experts caution that excessive chewing or certain ingredients could also pose risks to oral health. As researchers continue to explore the cognitive and emotional dimensions of chewing gum, its place in both everyday life and wellness routines remains a topic of interest.
