9 Surprising Health Benefits Of Chewing Gum

Brie Larson, the Oscar-winning actress, once remarked, "For some reason, chewing gum for me gets my brain going."

Chances are, most of us have popped a piece of chewing gum into our mouths at some point—if not regularly, then at least occasionally. People chew gum for a variety of reasons. For some, it’s the long-lasting sweet or minty flavor they enjoy. For others, it’s a go-to fix for bad breath.

Many also rely on chewing gum after consuming meals heavy on garlic or onions, or even after smoking, to mask lingering odors.

Over time, we’ve likely come across health advice warning us about the potential risks of chewing gum. Like with many foods or habits, opinions on chewing gum are divided—some see benefits, while others caution against it.

In our pursuit of better health, we often focus on balanced nutrition, regular workouts, breaking harmful habits like smoking or excessive drinking, and managing stress. Staying informed through the latest health research can also help us make smarter choices.

Interestingly, something as simple as chewing gum—often considered trivial or even harmful—might actually have a few surprising health perks when done in moderation.

Here are some unexpected health benefits of chewing gum:

# Enhances Memory

Psychologists at St. Lawrence University discovered that chewing sugar-free gum may boost blood flow to the brain’s hippocampus and increase oxygen supply. This improved circulation helps stimulate brain cells and enhance memory.

# Reduces Stress

Chewing gum can act as a stress-reliever. Studies show it increases oxygen flow to the brain and lowers levels of cortisol—the stress hormone—helping you feel more relaxed.

# Eases Anxiety

Similar to its stress-reducing effects, gum chewing can also alleviate anxiety. The act of chewing may help calm nerves, making it a useful trick before interviews or high-pressure situations.

# Supports Weight Loss

Reaching for a piece of sugar-free gum when hunger pangs strike can curb cravings and reduce the urge to snack unnecessarily, helping you stick to your diet goals.

# Relieves Nausea

If you’re prone to motion sickness or digestive-related nausea, chewing minty gum can help. It encourages saliva production, which helps neutralize stomach acid and ease nausea.

# Eases Constipation

Chewing gum increases saliva, which can stimulate digestive activity and help lubricate the intestines—providing temporary relief from constipation. However, chronic issues should always be addressed by a healthcare professional.

# Reduces Acidity

The saliva produced during chewing also helps balance stomach acid levels, offering short-term relief from acidity or acid reflux symptoms.

# Boosts Alertness

Feeling sluggish at work? Chewing gum can improve alertness and focus by stimulating blood flow and oxygen to the brain, giving you a mental boost.

# Eases Ear Discomfort

Air pressure changes during flights or at high altitudes can cause ear pain. Chewing gum helps balance the pressure in your ears by encouraging swallowing, which in turn relieves discomfort.